LGBT part in Suhakam report irrelevant, says PAS deputy president

The Suhakam report that was tabled in parliament earlier today contained parts that are not relevant for the country, said PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.

In a statement, Tuan Ibrahim (photo) said the irrelevant part was contained in the second chapter of the report which touches on the Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender (LGBT) community.

"Quoting several phrases in the report which stated that the traditional compliance to two genders classification had caused discrimination to the LGBT community and infringement of their rights.

"Since when did Malaysia start recognising LGBT as part of its cultural values? Which religion accepted LGBT as part of their teachings? Have Malaysia (even) built special toilets for the LGBT group?" he said.

Formed in 1999, Suhakam had every year since submitted their annual report to the parliament but it had never been discussed.

For the first time in Malaysia's history, de facto law minister Liew Vui Keong had tabled the commission's report in parliament today which was later debated by several MPs.

Meanwhile, PAS also took a swipe at Suhakam over its claim that Malaysia's criminal legal system, which is divided into the federal criminal laws and syariah laws, is confusing and discriminating the LGBT community.

"PAS wants to stress that the syariah law had been the core of Malaysia's legal system.

"Even the Federal Constitution puts Islam as the religion of the federation. Is Suhakam asking for the repeal of syariah laws just to care for LGBT rights?", it said.

For the record, the report by Suhakam tabled today stated that every person in LGBT should receive equal treatment.

They stated that such a principle should not only be limited to their access to the justice system, but must also cover the treatment they received in the criminal justice process.

In PAS's statement, the party said Suhakam should view the concept and principles of human rights based on the reality of history, religion and culture of Malaysia, instead of following the demands of the United Nations.