24-9-2023 (NEW YORK) Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed that Malaysia will not tolerate excessive action or harassment against individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). However, in an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour in New York, Anwar affirmed that Malaysia will not officially recognize LGBT rights.
Anwar clarified that both Muslims and non-Muslims in Malaysia share a consensus in not endorsing open public displays of LGBT identities. He emphasized the importance of not harassing individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
In response to the recent ban on Swatch’s Pride watches, which carries a possible three-year prison sentence for violators, Anwar expressed his inability to defend all enforcement actions and indicated his desire to see changes in this regard.
In August, the Home Ministry of Malaysia banned Swatch products featuring LGBT elements, warning that those found possessing such products could face a maximum three-year prison sentence, a fine of up to RM20,000, or both if convicted. The ban applied to all Swatch products containing LGBTQ+ elements, including watches, boxes, wrappers, and related materials.
This prohibition, as per Section 7 of the Printing Presses and Publications Act, aimed to curb the spread of elements perceived as potentially harmful to morality, the public’s interest, and the nation. The ban was officially gazetted on August 10, 2023.
Anwar acknowledged the necessity of respecting the consensus of the Malaysian people. He emphasized that while there might be consensus against recognizing LGBT rights, it should not translate into harassment or discrimination.
When Christiane Amanpour pointed out the sensitivity of sodomy laws, particularly as Anwar himself was falsely accused under such a law, the Prime Minister reiterated his position. He emphasized the need for a review of these laws to prevent abuses and political persecution.
Anwar highlighted the importance of exercising tolerance when it comes to the issue of LGBT rights, emphasizing that the focus should be on preventing harassment and discrimination. He suggested that a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy might be more acceptable to Malaysians.
