Justice for Sisters (JFS) has criticised the arrest of five trans women in Ipoh, Perak, under the state syariah law during a raid dubbed “Op Cegah Pondan”.
“The name of the operation is extremely disrespectful, dehumanising and reflects the state's profound prejudice and misunderstanding of gender identity,” said JSF co-founder Thilaga Sulatireh.
“Op Cegah Pondan” literally means “an operation to curb transgenders”.
Thilaga argued that trans people should not be charged, prevented or criminalised – pointing out the abundance of scientific evidence that confirmed their normalcy.
“When the state not only targets but tries to ‘curb’ a group based on their identity is a serious cause for concern,” she added in a statement.
JFS, which is a LGBTQ rights advocate, said the raid also reflected a concerning disregard for basic human rights and dignity.
According to the Perak Islamic Department (JAIPk), five Thai trans women were detained during the operation which targeted massage parlours in the state’s capital.
JAIPk said Section 55 of the Perak Syariah Law Enactment states that a man who cross-dresses and acts like a woman in a public place for the purpose of “maksiat” (immoral activities) can be fined RM1,000, jailed for six months or both.
Astro Awani reported that a photograph of the raid uploaded on JAIPk’s official Facebook page depicted some “running helter-skelter” when approached by enforcement officers.
Media amplifies prejudice
Meanwhile, JFS said the state Islamic department should uphold the principles of peace, dignity, respect, wellbeing and inclusivity.
“Instead, all the public sees are constant harassment and abuse…
“Further, the operation and the attitude of the Islamic department underscores the stark contrast in how gender identities are treated across geographical boundaries.
“While Thailand is making notable progress toward inclusive policies, trans women in Malaysia, regardless of their citizenship, continue to be unjustly targeted and systematically marginalised by state laws,” it added.
JFS also censured the media over its reports on the incident which amplified the prejudice and reinforced harmful stereotypes instead of challenging the position.
“As of Dec 8, a total of 10 publications (eight Bahasa Malaysia, two English) published or republished the news, in addition to two social media platforms.
“We urge the media to resist normalising the use of derogatory language against trans women, which only serves to further marginalise and demean them,” said Thilaga.
JFS also called for an end to raids and activities that criminalise and dehumanise transgenders.
“We maintain that respect and understanding of gender identity is essential for a truly inclusive and fair society, and urge the media to take responsibility in dismantling discriminatory language and practices,” it added. - Mkini
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