Police launch investigation into PSM Youth's LGBTQ+ event

Summary

• The police launch an investigation into PSM Youth's LGBTQ+ workshop under S298A of the Penal Code and S233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

• Selangor police chief Hussein Omar Khan says 21 police reports have been lodged against the event.

• He warns against participating or organising the workshop, saying that this might constitute offences under three laws.

The police have launched an investigation into PSM Youth's LGBTQ+ workshop.

Selangor police chief Hussein Omar Khan said the probe is being conducted under Section 298A of the Penal Code, which criminalises disturbing public tranquillity by insulting or undermining any religion, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) 1998.

"The programme is seen as crossing public sensitivities and violating national laws which do not support any form of LGBTQ+ practices in this country," he said in a statement today.

Hussein (above) said NGOs and the public have lodged 21 reports in 11 district police headquarters against the event.

He also warned the public against participating in the workshop, saying that organisation or participation might constitute offences under Sections 298A and 505(c) of the Penal Code as well as Section 233 of the CMA.

Section 505(c) of the Penal Code criminalises statements likely to incite tension between races or religions.

He said that those found guilty may face imprisonment of up to five years, a fine not exceeding RM50,000, or both.

Continuing any of the offences after conviction may see an additional fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continues, he added.

Rising hatred

Earlier today, PSM Youth announced the postponement of its “Pride Care: Queer Stories & Sexual Health Awareness” programme due to safety concerns.

Chairperson Amanda Shweeta Louis said the reaction from the public, as well as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar, reflects rising hatred despite the programme's goal of curbing sexually transmitted infections.

She added that Na'im comments led to increased hateful comments and death threats on PSM's social media.

On Wednesday, Na'im called for authorities to investigate and take legal action if the programme violates the law.

He also said that such a programme challenges the moral and religious values of Malaysians, even if it were to be held behind closed doors.

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