Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. Unrelated men and women will rarely shake hands with each other upon greeting. In certain business situations this may not be the case, but as a general rule do not feel snubbed if a person of the opposite sex refused to shake hands. A smile will suffice.
2. Muslim men may not introduce their wives or daughters to visitors. When this happens never take the initiative to introduce yourself. Never ask a Muslim man about his wife or daughters, even if only inquiring about their health.
3. Alcohol is not sold in Brunei-Darussalam. Muslims in Brunei are forbidden to drink any sort of alcoholic drink. However, visitors may bring a limited amount upon entering the country. Should you bring any wine or spirits to the country refrain from public consumption and do not offer alcohol to Bruneians.
4. Women should dress modestly and with respect to the Islamic traditions.
5. Do not point with the index finger; this is considered extremely rude. Instead clench your fist and point with the thumb.
6. Never touch the top of any ones head.
7. Remove shoes before entering a house and Mosque.
8. Avoid using the left hand. Always take and receive gifts and food with the right.
9. The bottom of the foot is considered unclean and Muslims will feel insulted when they must look at it. Therefore, be careful how you sit and stand. For example, never sit with your ankle resting on your knee. Never use your foot to point at anyone or thing.
10. Address people by their title.
11. Do not flirt or display affection with members of the opposite sex in public.
12. The visitor should always respect the five daily times of prayer. One should never smoke, drink or eat in public during the month of Ramadan.
13. Eating pork products is prohibited among Muslims; visitors should be respectful of these restrictions.
14. The visitor is advised to learn about the local laws before entering the country. "Guilty until proven innocent" is the motto of the court.