Why Are M’sians Afraid of Dildos?: Sex Toys Worth RM1.1 Million Seized During Raid in Penang

By Ameera Rosli  •  14 Mar 2023 in News

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On 15 February, the Home Ministry had seized over 20,000 sex toys worth an estimated RM1.1 million in Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

The raid happened after police received intelligence that the premises was being used to store sex toys, which were sold online, according to a press conference that was held today (14 March).

The confiscated sex toys were believed to have originated from China and were being sold for RM70-RM450 on e-commerce platforms.

An investigation has been opened under Section 7(1) of the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 for undesirable publications, as well as Section 292(a) of the Penal Code for selling obscene goods, as reported by The Star.

The operation also involved the arrest of a 29-year-old woman, who was charged at Bukit Mertajam Magistrate’s Court and fined RM5,000.

Only a week ago, another raid occurred where the Home Ministry seized over 1,000 banned sex toys at a residence in Kota Warisan, Sepang, as reported by Malay Mail.

“The ministry is worried that the use of sex toys would affect the morality of Malaysians and if uncontrolled, would lead to a decline in moral values and other social problems,” said Nik Yusaimi, who is the enforcement and controls division secretary of the Home Ministry.

Sex toys are considered “obscene” objects, which is why it is illegal to own them. By definition, obscene means that it is offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality and decency.

With that, are sex toys actually “obscene” when they are used in private for matters that are contained within one’s bedroom (or couch/shower – wherever you prefer)?

Or is it our repulsion towards sex and the enjoyment of it outside of procreation that is hindering our ability to own these items?

In that case, are sex toys really to blame for social problems or are we ignoring larger factors for the sake of convenience?