Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) welcomes the Federal Court’s decision to rule that Section 28 of the Selangor State Syariah Enactment on the offence of unnatural intercourse is contrary to the Federal Constitution. Section 28 was needlessly used as an oppressive tool by the state to criminalize the sexual orientation of the LGBT community in Malaysia.

PSM is encouraged by the Malaysian LGBT community and their struggle to attain their rights not to be discriminated just because of differences in sexuality and gender. The struggle of the LGBT community in Malaysia is a struggle that also ensures equal rights, justice, and freedom to all Malaysians, to everyone who lives in a country we call ‘merdeka’ or free.

The Federal Court decision has reminded all Malaysians, regardless of our background, to stop criminalization and end discrimination against the LGBT community. PSM would like to remind everyone that Malaysia is a constitutional country and a country made up of various people of different cultures, religions, sexuality and gender.

Any action or law should not discriminate or oppress anyone. Regardless of whether Syariah or Civil, the law must protect the rights to express their sexual orientation. The journey of the LGBT community in Malaysia for equal rights and acceptance is long, but PSM’s support for them is still strong, and we will stand with them in solidarity all the way.

Gender Bureau
Parti Sosialis Malaysia