---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Julian Date: 2012/4/14 Subject: M'sia NHRI writes in support of LGBT
FYI - SUHAKAM's positive words re LGBT communities and on the banning of seksualiti merdeka... Julian. www.malaysiakini.com/news/194389 *Respect rights of sexual minorities, gov't reminded *S Pathmawathy<http://malaysiakini.com/author?l=en&c=news&n=S%20Pathmawathy> 12:29PM Apr 7, 2012 The government-linked human rights watchdog has recommended in its annual report for 2011 that laws be enacted to protect the rights of sexual minorities. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) said this was because of the “ill-treatment, discrimination, bullying, humiliation and intimidation” of sexual minorities in the country. “There is a need to establish legal and other forms of protection and redress in the event of violence against sexual minorities, in full consultation with them,” stated Suhakam in its report tabled in Parliament last week. Suhakam said as a signatory to the Convention for the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), full implementation of its provisions is necessary. “In the light of CEDAW, relevant laws should be reviewed to prevent discrimination of persons based on gender identity and sexual orientation. “Article 8(2) of the federal constitution prohibits discrimination against citizens on the grounds only of religion, race, descent, place of birth or gender, however it can be expanded to bar discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. “Laws should also be enforced against vigilantism toward sexual minorities, while the Domestic Violence Act 1994 could be expanded to include the protection of the sexual minorities,” the commission added. Stressing that human rights is accorded to all without distinctions, the commission also proposed that recognition be given to the transgenders, including providing access to education, employment and healthcare services. “Public amenities must take into consideration the needs of the transgenders,” added the report. Violence should not be tolerated The Malaysian government is often criticised for its intolerance on issues affecting the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. This escalated after the authorities placed an indefinite ban on the annual ‘Seksualiti Merdeka’ festival. The fourth installation of the festival, which began in 2008, was slated for November last year in commemoration of the human rights of people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity, organised by a loose coalition of NGOs, artistes, activists and individuals. In July 2011, the Terengganu High Court rejected a bid by transsexual Aleesha Farhana Abdul Aziz to have her name changed from Mohamad Ashraf Hafiz Abdul Aziz after undergoing a sex-change operation in 2008. Prior to that, a Muslim gay youth who spoke proudly of his sexuality on YouTube received death threats and was accused of insulting Islam. Although there are no specific references made in the report, Suhakam hit out at groups lacking “sensitivity and respect” for the LGBT community. “The commission stands firm that the sexual minority groups’ rights and fundamental liberties must be upheld and respected at all times. “They are entitled to enjoy their human rights like all human beings. Brutality and violation of their rights cannot be justified,” said Suhakam.
