‘Self censorship and fear’: backlash lingers for Malaysia’s LGBT community after British band’s kiss

 | 
08/30/2023

The British rock band The 1975 has made life harder for LGBT people in Malaysia after staging a protest involving a same-sex kiss at a festival in the country earlier this summer, say local activists. More than a month after lead singer Matt Healy kissed a male bandmate and blasted the Malaysian government for “telling us who we can have sex with” in an expletive-strewn rant, a backlash has taken place across the country leaving ordinary LGBT people living in fear. The stunt generated headlines worldwide, serving as a reminder that homosexuality remains illegal in Malaysia, punishable with 20 years in prison. But it has also played into the hands of anti-gay politicians, said Dhia Rezki Rohaizad, deputy president of JEJAKA, a local gay rights group.

Regions: ,

Share this:

Latest Global News

Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
In the wake of the U.S. election, crisis lines are surging – an undeniable indication that the most marginalized groups among us are reeling in uncertainty. In …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
CAPE TOWN – The first openly LGBTQ+ candidates to run for office in Namibia say young voters want change even as hate crimes rise …

Explore LGBTQ+ Issues

Other News from ,

Added on: 11/22/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …
Added on: 11/19/2024
On September 24, Thailand celebrated the landmark passage of a marriage equality bill. The legislation, which goes into effect in January 2025, will solidify …
Added on: 11/19/2024
It was the early hours of the morning when a guard entered Sohrab’s cell – a small, dark room with a barred window and …