No need to defend LGBTs, PAS tells Suhakam
PUCHONG: PAS dismissed Suhakam’s report on the discrimination suffered by the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, saying it was irrelevant.
In a statement, PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man claims that the LGBT’s lifestyle does not correspond with Malaysian culture and was at odds with all religions.
“Qouting several phrases in the report which stated that the traditional compliance to two genders classification had caused discrimination to the LGBT community and infringement of their rights.
“Since when did Malaysia started recognising LGBT as part of its cultural values? Which religion accepted LGBT as part of their teachings?
“Have Malaysia (even) built special toilets for the LGBT group?” he asked.
The PAS leader also criticised Suhakam on its assertion that Malaysia’s criminal legal system, divided between civil laws and Syariah laws, is confusing and was discriminatory towards the LGBT.
“PAS wants to stress that the Syariah law had been the core of Malaysia’s legal system.
“Even the Federal Constitution puts Islam as the religion of the federation. Is Suhakam asking for the repeal of Syariah laws just to care for LGBT rights?” asked Tuan Ibrahim.
Formed in 1999, Suhakam had published annual reports on human rights issues affecting Malaysians but it was never discussed in Parliament.
For the first time in Malaysia’s history, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Liew Vui Keong had tabled Suhakam’s report in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, which was later debated by MPs.
By Irman Hashim
