When norms shift: Why LGBTQ+ visibility is raising alarms in Malaysia

WHAT is happening in our society today? Malaysia is seeing a growing visibility of LGBTQ+ expressions in public spaces, entertainment platforms and online content.

While discussions about identity are not new, the acceptance shown by some groups is increasing.

This is happening even though Islam sets clear boundaries on gender expression and sexual behaviour. The tension between long-held religious values and modern trends is becoming more obvious.

The issue now involves more than just social media figures. Recently, a major raid uncovered several individuals involved in prohibited activities, including a high-ranking government officer.

This shocked Malaysians because leaders are expected to safeguard moral standards. When those entrusted with responsibility are caught in acts that contradict Islamic teachings and national values, the public begins to question the direction the country is heading.

Recently, a major raid uncovered several individuals involved in prohibited activities, including a high-ranking government officer.

Many Malaysians are asking where these concerns come from. The worry is not caused by religious groups alone. Families, educators, community observers and ordinary citizens feel uneasy as they watch behaviours that were once considered taboo become widespread.

In malls, public events and even official programmes, influencers who dress, look, and act like women are increasingly visible. Their presence is bold and often celebrated online. This makes society wonder whether such displays are being normalised without proper reflection.

The shift did not happen overnight. It has grown stronger in recent years due to social media platforms that amplify these personalities. Influencers with large followings shape trends and behaviour.

Their content, accessible at all hours, makes their lifestyle appear normal to young audiences. Many youths begin to imitate what they see, even though it goes against Islamic guidelines and cultural expectations.

Several behaviours raise concern. Male-to-female mimicry is now used as entertainment for views and popularity. Some among this group behave as if they are entitled to public acceptance, acting as though society must agree with their identity choices.

When cases arise, many use the victim narrative, placing blame on upbringing or past experiences. While these personal struggles deserve empathy, it becomes worrying when such narratives are used to avoid accountability or shut down criticism.

Another layer of public anxiety comes from the rising number of HIV and AIDS cases reported in Malaysia. Health authorities have highlighted increases in certain high-risk behaviours and unsafe practices which contribute to new infections.

This has deepened society’s worry because it shows that moral and social issues are now intersecting with serious public health concerns. Parents and community leaders fear that normalising prohibited relationships and unsafe behaviour may expose more young people to unnecessary health risks.

This trend affects Malaysian society in many ways. The public is increasingly divided. Some view these behaviours as harmless expressions of individuality. Others fear that unchecked visibility influences children, weakens moral values, and creates confusion among the younger generation.

The recent case involving a government officer adds another layer of concern. When leaders fail to uphold moral boundaries, society loses trust and the lines of right and wrong become blurred.

At the same time, certain individuals within the LGBTQ+ community appear to feel privileged. They expect sympathy but refuse to recognise that Malaysian society operates within Islamic principles and cultural norms. This imbalance intensifies tension between different segments of the population.

Malaysia now stands at a crossroads. As a Muslim-majority nation, our values emphasise family, discipline and moral clarity. Islam calls for compassion, but it also demands firmness when dealing with actions that are clearly prohibited.

The growing visibility of LGBTQ+ behaviour, alongside increasing public health concerns such as HIV and AIDS, raises real questions about the future. How far will these shifting norms reshape our identity, and what will our society look like in the years ahead if these trends continue without guidance?

It is time for Malaysians to reflect and voice their concerns with wisdom. Society must protect its values while still offering guidance and compassion to those who struggle. Remaining silent is no longer an option.

Dr Siti Salbiah Norazan is a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Modern Language and Communication, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.