KUALA LUMPUR: Amid backlash against a camping retreat organised by a pro-lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) advocacy group, Malaysian authorities said that no permits would be issued for such activities even as its organiser announced on Tuesday (Jan 13) of the event’s cancellation due to safety concerns.
The two-day “Glamping with Pride” event – organised by pro-LGBTQ advocacy group Jejaka – was slated to take place in the Hulu Langat district of Selangor from Jan 17 to 18.
The planned event also caught the attention of Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who on Monday ordered “firm action” against any activities linked to the retreat.
Jejaka had described the programme as a private community gathering focused on health, well-being and HIV awareness. However, the event drew criticism after its poster circulated online in recent weeks.
Selangor Chief Minister Amirudin Shari on Tuesday said that while glamping activities were not prohibited, restrictions are in place with regards to the permits applied to events involving LGBTQ elements, noting a directive from the state’s ruler.
“I believe His Royal Highness’ directive is not overly rigid, but it is aimed at activities considered immoral and unacceptable, which I am certain many Malaysians oppose,” he was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
“I don’t think such activities will take place but if organisers persist, I urge the authorities to take action.”
In a Facebook post by the Selangor Royal Office on Monday, Sultan Sharafuddin said that he opposed any deviant LGBTQ activities in the state, adding that while such acts involved individual sins and went beyond natural order, they could invite “wrath and curse” upon the state.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-lgbtq-jejaka-glamping-pride-selangor-cancellation-5857791
