G25 calls out Parliament’s LGBT language

We, the members of G25, are concerned about the remarks made in Parliament regarding the LGBT community.

The deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department responsible for religious affairs recently urged the public and government agencies to refer to individuals of the LGBT community as “budaya songsang” (deviant culture) to prevent its normalisation.

We, G25, support the call by the Malaysian human rights commission, Suhakam, in reaffirming the importance of constitutional equality and responsible parliamentary discourse.

Parliament is the highest legislative body in the country. Statements made within its chambers inevitably shape public attitudes and national tone. Words that stigmatise or single out particular groups risk deepening prejudice and encouraging discrimination, whether intended or otherwise.

The frequent bashing of the LGBT community by certain quarters, particularly religious groups, has always posed a threat to the safety and security of these individuals in leading a normal life.

G25 is opposed to such hostile behaviour and discrimination because, as human beings, they have the same rights and freedoms to live in dignity as the rest of the population. They are not criminals under our laws.

Article 5 of our Federal Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.

Article 8(1) of the FC affirms that all persons are equal before the law and entitled to the equal protection of the law. Article 8(2) prohibits discrimination against citizens on specified grounds, including gender.

These provisions underscore Malaysia’s constitutional commitment to equality, fairness and the protection of fundamental liberties.

Malaysia’s ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Cedaw) in 1995 further reflects our commitment to eliminating discrimination and upholding the dignity of all persons, particularly where overlapping vulnerabilities may arise.

Public institutions and lawmakers must remain mindful of these obligations in the discharge of their duties.

At the same time, G25 recognises that Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country where Islamic values guide many in matters of personal morality. As Muslims, individuals may hold certain views regarding conduct and lifestyle that we do not agree with.

However, our faith emphasises compassion, justice and restraint in judgment. Personal moral and religious convictions should not lead to hostility, public shaming or the denial of dignity to others, as it also risks projecting an image of Islam that is neither fair nor reflective of its true teachings.

In a constitutional democracy where Islam is the official religion, differences in belief must be managed with wisdom and moderation.

We, the members of G25, therefore call upon all MPs and public office holders to exercise prudence and responsibility when addressing sensitive matters.

As a modern and progressive nation striving toward fully developed status, Malaysia must demonstrate the civic maturity and institutional integrity expected of an advanced democracy. A mature democracy demands reasoned debate grounded in facts, respect and fidelity to constitutional principles.

This blessed month of Ramadan is a time of reflection, self-restraint and the cultivation of peace. We, Muslims, are reminded that the greater struggle is with our own conduct and character. It is a month that calls for humility, mercy, and measured speech. In this spirit, public discourse should also embody the values of moderation and respect that this month seeks to nurture.

Beyond that, Malaysia’s strength lies in its ability to uphold justice while preserving harmony.

We must ensure that public discourse, especially in Parliament, reflects the values of dignity, equality and moderation that are the foundation of our peaceful nation. – G25

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