#LGBT: As from today, gay sex is punishable with death by stoning in Brunei

The Sultan of Brunei has called for 'Islamic teachings to grow stronger' as new sharia laws that punish gay sex and adultery with death by stoning came into force today.

The tough penal code in the tiny country on tropical Borneo island - ruled by the all-powerful Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah - fully came into force following years of delays. The laws, which also include amputation of hands and feet for thieves, make Brunei the first place in East or Southeast Asia to have a sharia penal code at the national level, joining several mostly Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia.


Photos: #LGBT: Ellen DeGeneres calls for boycott of hotels owned by the Sultan of Brunei.