PM Wants Stronger Law on Hate Speech Towards People with Different Sexual Orientation & Gender

By Karissa Lund  •  21 Jan 2021 in News

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According to Malaysiakini, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has suggested that ASEAN take a tougher stance against hate speech, including harassment based on gender or sexual orientation.

Today at the first online ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting, Muhyiddin said he wants stronger legislation to compel digital platforms to take action on hate speech. He said,

“ASEAN could also consider stronger legislation pertaining to hate speech that, among others, compels digital platforms to remove or/and mete out punishment for any speech wilfully promoting violence and attacks, be it verbal or physical, including but not limited to harassment and threats against a person or persons based on their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality.”

His remarks come amidst the push made by his administration to legislate amendments to further prosecute the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) community – making it contradictory.

#ICYMI, Religious Affairs Deputy Minister Ahmad Marzuk Shaary said yesterday, the government plans to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act (Act 355) to correct the “wrongdoings” of the LGBT. The PAS leader also said that stern action was being taken against those who do not dress as required of their gender.

Meanwhile, Lawyers for Liberty said the recent attack towards the LGBT+ community was meant to distract from real issues.

They argued that the Federal Constitution ensures that no one should be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender and that all must be treated equally before the law.

The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) also urged the government to be compassionate and amend Act 355 so it can be more in line with international human rights standards.