Brunei – Prescriptions and Medications

What are pharmacies called in Brunei, and how do I recognise one?

The Malay term for pharmacy in Brunei is farmasi (occasionally rendered as farmacy), and this word appears prominently on signs above independent shops, within hospital buildings, and inside shopping malls. The English word “pharmacy” is equally commonplace, and signage in city areas typically appears in both languages, making these outlets straightforward to identify for newcomers.

Much like their counterparts elsewhere in the world, pharmacies in Brunei frequently display a green cross symbol — a widely recognised emblem associated with healthcare retail. Chain pharmacies such as Guardian Pharmacy are present in major shopping centres and are easy to spot by their branded storefronts. Guardian Pharmacy operates across Brunei’s principal cities and is dedicated to supplying health products and services to the public.

Brunei’s pharmacies are subject to thorough regulation and can be found within hospitals, attached to clinics, and as standalone retail outlets. Hospital pharmacies — including those within government facilities and private medical centres — are typically situated inside the hospital building itself and are clearly signposted from the main entrance. When collecting a prescription at a hospital pharmacy, look for pharmacy or farmasi directions upon entering the building.

All medicinal products manufactured, sold, supplied, or imported into Brunei Darussalam fall under the regulatory scope of the Medicines Order 2007. The Brunei Darussalam Medicines Control Authority (BDMCA), working through the Department of Pharmaceutical Services, holds responsibility for decisions and recommendations regarding the registration, licensing, and listing of medicinal products. Further details are available on the Ministry of Health Brunei pharmacy services page.

What are pharmacy opening hours in Brunei?

The majority of Brunei’s pharmacies are staffed by qualified, licensed pharmacists capable of providing reliable guidance on medication use. Most operate during standard business hours, with a number offering extended trading for greater convenience. Community pharmacies and those inside shopping centres typically open from around 9:00 am through to 10:00 pm on both weekdays and weekends, although exact times differ by location.

As an illustration, pharmacies within the Brunei Times Square shopping centre operate between 9:00 am and 10:00 pm. Hospital-based pharmacies generally mirror outpatient clinic hours, often opening around 7:45 am and closing in the early afternoon on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays and no service on Sundays or public holidays — though the emergency departments of government hospitals function continuously around the clock.

Brunei does not have an established network of 24-hour community pharmacies comparable to those available in certain other countries. Outside regular pharmacy trading hours, the most practical course of action is to attend the emergency department at the nearest government hospital. As at least one hospital serves each district of the country, expats are never too far from urgent medical assistance.

Pharmacy options become more limited in rural parts of the country, and the distances between outlets can be considerable. If you live beyond Bandar Seri Begawan or other urban centres, it is prudent to locate your nearest pharmacy and hospital before any need arises. For up-to-date pharmacy locations and operating hours, consult the Ministry of Health Brunei pharmacy directory.

Which medications can I buy over the counter in Brunei, and which require a prescription?

Medicines in Brunei are arranged into three classifications: Prescription Only Medicines (POM), Pharmacy Medicines (P), and General Sales List (GSL) products. Familiarity with these three levels will help you understand what you may purchase freely, what demands pharmacist involvement, and what necessitates a doctor’s prescription.

• Prescription Only Medicines (POM): These medications may only be issued by a licensed doctor and released to patients upon presentation of a complete, valid prescription. This category encompasses antibiotics, the majority of cardiovascular drugs, controlled substances, and a wide range of other medicines that require medical supervision.
• Pharmacy Medicines (P): These products are exclusively available from pharmacies and must be obtained in the presence of a qualified pharmacist. They are generally kept behind the counter rather than on open shelves. This classification is broadly analogous to the “pharmacist-only” category used in countries such as Australia.
• General Sales List (GSL): GSL products may be sold through a variety of outlets including retail shops and supermarkets. This tier covers everyday items such as basic pain relief, antiseptic preparations, and general health supplements.

It is worth noting that some medicines freely available over the counter in other countries may be prescription-only in Brunei. Antihistamines, certain cough preparations, and antibiotic creams, for example, may carry a more restrictive classification here than expats are accustomed to. Surveys of healthcare professionals in Brunei have indicated that many consider some of these products — including antihistamines, medicated cough syrups, antibiotic creams, and eye drops — suitable for sale without a prescription at community pharmacies, suggesting that current rules remain tighter than many newcomers might anticipate.

With regard to online purchasing, Brunei lacks a mature, regulated online pharmacy framework equivalent to those found in some other jurisdictions. Items contaminated with scheduled poisons, undisclosed western medicines, or concealed controlled substances are prohibited in Brunei, and the Ministry of Health bans their importation, sale, and use. Acquiring medications through unverified online channels therefore carries significant legal and health risks. Medications should always be sourced from a licensed pharmacy or recognised healthcare provider.

How does the prescription system work in Brunei?

Prescription medicines in Brunei are strictly controlled, and a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner is required before they can be dispensed. Prescriptions may be issued by general practitioners at government health clinics and hospitals, and by specialists at hospital outpatient departments or private medical centres. Unlike some healthcare systems that separate the prescribing and dispensing functions, in Brunei prescriptions are ordinarily filled at the same facility that issues them.

Paper-based prescriptions remain the prevailing format across the country. While Brunei has been investing in digital health infrastructure — including a ‘one-patient, one-record’ system intended to give physicians access to a patient’s complete health record from any location — fully electronic prescribing arrangements comparable to those operating in parts of Europe are not yet universally implemented across all healthcare settings.

Repeat prescriptions for people managing chronic illnesses are available but generally require an ongoing consultation or clinical review with a doctor rather than automatic renewal. This contrasts with systems such as the NHS in the United Kingdom, where repeat prescriptions may often be requested without booking a new appointment. In Brunei, patients with long-term conditions are typically expected to attend regular reviews at a clinic or hospital outpatient department in order to maintain their medication supply.

There is no universally published validity period for all prescription types; the general expectation is that prescriptions should be dispensed without undue delay, and controlled substances carry particularly tight validity windows. Always confirm the applicable timeframe with your prescribing doctor or dispensing pharmacist.

How much do prescriptions and medications cost in Brunei?

The price of medicines in Brunei varies considerably depending on your nationality, residency status, and whether you use public or private healthcare. Brunei’s government provides extensive healthcare subsidies for its citizens. Brunei citizens pay BND $1 per consultation, and children under 12 years of age receive free treatment. Medications dispensed to citizens through government hospitals and clinics form part of this heavily subsidised arrangement.

For foreign nationals — including most expatriates — circumstances have shifted materially. Following a significant policy change by the Ministry of Health that took effect on 1 July 2025, foreign permanent residents and the foreign spouses of Bruneian citizens are now required to meet their own medical costs. This policy ends free healthcare for many thousands of people in Brunei, making it essential for those affected to obtain personal health insurance to cover expenses previously borne by the government.

Even under the revised arrangements, government healthcare costs remain partially offset. Medical charges continue to be described as “heavily subsidised” by the government and do not represent the true cost of the care delivered. That said, expats should not depend on this subsidy to absorb all expenses. Medication costs will vary depending on whether a drug is branded or generic, as well as on the location of the pharmacy.

At private pharmacies and private hospitals, prices are set at or nearer to standard market rates. Generic versions of branded medicines are available and typically cost less. For the most current fee information at government facilities, visit the Ministry of Health Brunei website, as charges are periodically revised.

Under the Poisons Act 1956, those found selling contaminated or prohibited medicinal products face fines of up to BND $8,000 or six months’ imprisonment; where negligence results in harm, penalties can escalate to BND $16,000 and twelve months’ imprisonment. This underlines the importance of purchasing all medications from properly licensed and regulated outlets.

Will my home-country prescription be accepted in Brunei?

Because prescription medicines in Brunei are strictly regulated, a valid prescription issued by a locally licensed medical practitioner is required for their purchase. Prescriptions originating from other countries are generally not accepted directly, and expatriates will usually need to consult a Bruneian doctor to obtain a locally issued prescription. This approach is consistent with the practice in many other countries — including Singapore, where overseas prescriptions typically need to be countersigned or reissued by a local practitioner.

If you arrive in Brunei carrying a long-term prescription from abroad — whether for hypertension, diabetes, mental health treatment, or another ongoing condition — the most practical first step is to register with a government health clinic or arrange an appointment with a private GP as soon as possible after settling in. Take your overseas prescription documents, the original medication packaging, and any supporting correspondence from your home doctor. A doctor in Brunei can then evaluate your requirements and issue an appropriate local prescription.

This procedure ensures that medicines are used safely and appropriately, reducing the risk of misuse or adverse effects. It also gives the local doctor the opportunity to review your dosage and verify whether the same product or a clinically comparable substitute is available in Brunei, since not every medicine obtainable elsewhere will necessarily be registered or stocked here.

Should your medication not be locally registered or available, your doctor may be able to make arrangements for a special import under defined circumstances, or propose a therapeutically equivalent alternative. The Department of Pharmaceutical Services can confirm whether a particular product holds registration in Brunei.

Can I bring my medications into Brunei?

Carrying personal medications into Brunei for legitimate medical purposes is generally permitted, but it is essential to comply with the country’s drug importation rules, which are rigorously enforced. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises travellers that some prescription drugs may be considered illegal in other countries, and recommends verifying with the relevant embassy that any medication you intend to bring is permitted.

For the majority of standard prescription medicines, carrying a personal supply is acceptable provided you have supporting documentation. Recommended practice is to:

1. Carry your original prescription or a letter from your prescribing doctor, written on official letterhead and clearly stating your name, the name and dosage of the medication, and the medical reason for its use.
2. Keep medications in their original packaging with the pharmacy label intact, so that the contents are clearly identifiable at the border.
3. Declare medications at customs if you are uncertain whether they require declaration — particularly for controlled substances or injectable medications.
4. Bring only a reasonable personal supply. Large quantities may be questioned by customs officials.
5. Check well in advance whether any of your medications are classified as controlled substances or scheduled poisons under Brunei’s Poisons Act 1956, as these are subject to stricter rules.

Products containing scheduled poisons, undeclared western medicines, or concealed controlled substances are banned in Brunei, and the Ministry of Health prohibits their importation, sale, and use. This is particularly relevant to unlabelled or informally sourced health supplement products that may contain undisclosed pharmaceutical ingredients — a category that travellers sometimes overlook. Always buy supplements from reputable retailers and verify their registration status before bringing them into the country.

It is advisable to check the availability of specific medications in advance and to bring an adequate supply if relocating to Brunei, in full compliance with local importation regulations. For definitive and current guidance on what may be brought into the country, contact the Department of Pharmaceutical Services or the Royal Customs and Excise Department of Brunei before travelling.

How do expats access prescription medications through health insurance in Brunei?

The framework for expatriate healthcare access in Brunei underwent a fundamental shift in 2025. Following a major policy change by the Ministry of Health that came into force on 1 July 2025, foreign permanent residents and the foreign spouses of Bruneian citizens are now required to cover their own medical costs. This change ends free healthcare entitlement for large numbers of people in Brunei, making it imperative for those concerned to arrange personal health insurance to meet expenses previously absorbed by the government.

Local insurers including Takaful Brunei Am and National Insurance Company Berhad have introduced new or expanded packages designed specifically for expatriates and permanent residents holding foreign citizenship. These plans incorporate minimum coverage of BND 100,000 in line with the phased rollout commencing 1 July 2025. Expats are encouraged to compare both local and international providers to identify a plan that meets their individual circumstances.

Private health insurance in Brunei can extend to prescription medication costs, but the degree of that coverage depends on the specific policy terms. Expats holding private health insurance should review their policy carefully to establish whether prescription medicines are included, as this can substantially reduce what they pay out of pocket. Some international policies cover outpatient prescriptions subject to a co-payment, while others limit medication coverage to drugs dispensed during a hospital stay.

As a legal resident in Brunei, expats can access the public healthcare system once they register with the Ministry of Health and obtain a medical card. While the public system covers most medical services, many expatriates choose to supplement this with private medical insurance for broader coverage, access to additional benefits, and the option of treatment at private hospitals.

The Ministry of Health has encouraged those affected by the new policy to treat health insurance as a financial safeguard against future medical costs, encompassing hospitalisation, specialist care, and medications. Individuals facing genuine financial hardship can be referred to the Medical Social Worker Division for assessment, and those who qualify may receive assistance from the MoH Patient Relief Fund, the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB), Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, or may be offered the option of instalment payment arrangements.

Health insurance issued by overseas providers is also accepted. The Ministry has made clear that anyone requiring emergency treatment or urgent medical attention will not be refused care or asked to pay before receiving it — an important assurance for expats in critical situations.

The great majority of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists in Brunei are able to communicate effectively in English, which makes navigating the healthcare system considerably more manageable for many new arrivals. For further information on accessing healthcare and medications as a foreign national, contact the Ministry of Health Brunei directly.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I run out of medication in Brunei?

If your supply of a prescription medicine runs out, attend a government health clinic or private GP at the earliest opportunity. Take any remaining packaging, your prescription from your home country, and a letter from your doctor if one is available. A Bruneian doctor will be able to review your situation and issue a locally valid prescription. Never attempt to obtain prescription medicines without a valid local prescription, as doing so constitutes an offence under the Medicines Order 2007.

Are brand-name drugs available in Brunei?

Brunei sources the bulk of its pharmaceutical supply through importation. A wide selection of internationally recognised brand-name medications is available, though the range is naturally narrower than in larger markets. Generic equivalents are commonly stocked and are usually more affordable. Since not every medicine available in other countries will be registered or obtainable in Brunei, it is sensible to check availability before relocating and to discuss potential alternatives with your doctor.

How do I find a pharmacist who speaks English in Brunei?

The overwhelming majority of healthcare professionals in Brunei, including pharmacists, are comfortable communicating in English, so locating English-speaking pharmacy staff presents little difficulty — particularly in urban centres such as Bandar Seri Begawan. Staff at major chains like Guardian and at hospital pharmacies are typically at ease in English. Language assistance may be harder to find in more remote rural locations.

What happens in a medical emergency — will I be given medication even if I can’t pay?

No person requiring emergency care or urgent medical attention will be turned away or asked to settle a bill before receiving treatment. Government hospital emergency departments remain open at all hours. If financial hardship arises following emergency treatment, referral to the Medical Social Worker Division is available for assessment and potential support. It is advisable to carry your health insurance details with you at all times.

Can I order medications online in Brunei?

There is no established and nationally regulated online pharmacy system operating in Brunei. Acquiring prescription medicines online from unverified sources is inadvisable and potentially unlawful. Items contaminated with scheduled poisons or concealing controlled substances are prohibited, and the Ministry of Health bans their importation, sale, and use. All medications should be obtained from a licensed pharmacy or accredited healthcare facility.

Are controlled substances such as strong painkillers or ADHD medications available in Brunei?

Controlled substances are governed by strict regulations under the Poisons Act 1956 and may only be prescribed by authorised doctors and dispensed through licensed facilities. Anyone requiring a controlled substance for a medical condition must consult a local doctor, who will evaluate the case and issue an appropriate prescription where clinically justified. Bringing substantial quantities of controlled substances into Brunei from abroad demands careful preparation and thorough documentation — check all requirements with the relevant embassy before you travel.

Are there subsidised medications for people with chronic conditions?

Brunei’s public healthcare system provides heavily subsidised medicines to citizens with chronic conditions through government hospitals and health clinics. Government facilities may offer lower medication prices than their private counterparts. Expatriates are not automatically entitled to the same level of subsidy as citizens, and from 2025 onwards, foreign permanent residents are required to fund their own care. Expats managing ongoing conditions are strongly encouraged to secure comprehensive private health insurance that includes outpatient prescription coverage.

Will my health insurance from abroad be accepted at Brunei hospitals?

Health insurance issued by overseas providers is accepted at government hospitals. However, private hospitals and clinics may operate direct billing arrangements with certain insurers or require payment upfront with subsequent reimbursement. Before seeking treatment, it is advisable to contact both your insurance provider and the hospital to clarify the claims process in advance. Many major international insurers — including Allianz, Bupa, AXA, and Cigna — have regional networks that encompass Brunei.