Marital Betrayal, its Effects on Society and its Penalties in Law: Brunei Darussalam as an Example

Abstract

This study is entitled Marital Betrayal, Its Effects on Society and Its Penalties in Law: Brunei Darussalam as an Example. The marital betrayal is an issue that has occurred in most countries, and it is no exception to occur in Islamic countries such as in Brunei Darussalam. It not a trivial issue as it affects not only between two spouses, but also it affects the society that associates with them. This study will explain the reality of marriage and marital betrayal, some of the effects along with its’ penalties contained in Islamic Family Law Chapter 217 and Syariah Penal Code Order, 2013. This study is based on the descriptive and analytical approaches. Among the results of this study, a person that failed to preserve their marital integrity could lead them to contribute one of the most serious consequences such as adultery (Zina), seclusion (Al-KhalwaÏ), negligence of responsibilities and disobedience (Nusyuz). If these effects were proven by law, they are actually considered to have committed the crime and they will be facing the penalties.