Islamic affairs minister denounces Malaysian’s participation in Bangkok transgender pageant

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 - The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) has vehemently denounced Malaysia's involvement in a transgender beauty contest held in Bangkok over the weekend. Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan, a minister, stated that such behavior not only harms Malaysia's global image but also contradicts Islamic principles, local customs, and the Malaysian values of decency and morality.

The minister emphasized that imitating the opposite sex, or tasyabbuh, and promoting a transgender lifestyle are forbidden under Islamic law and state Syariah laws. Neither religious leaders nor the Malaysian government have ever endorsed or recognized the organization or participation in such events, as per a statement he shared on Facebook.

The minister appealed to the public not to sensationalize or celebrate activities deemed contrary to Islamic teachings but instead to safeguard moral values and the faith of the Muslim community. "Religious authorities will collaborate with relevant authorities to explore potential action under current laws," he concluded. Previously, a video surfaced on social media showing an individual representing Malaysia at an international transgender beauty pageant, eliciting varied responses from online users.