SHARED BY UNESCO:
Gender
Understanding Security threats and risks related to sex, sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity:
Gender-Based Violence: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals in Malaysia face significant challenges. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal, and same-sex relationships are not recognized under the law. Additionally, the adoption of children by same-sex couples is prohibited. LGBTI individuals are not widely accepted by society and are often seen as violating the values and beliefs of the majority of Malaysians. LGBTI rights are further restricted under Section 377A of the Penal Code, Sections 25 and 26 of the Syariah Criminal Offences Enactment, and Section 28 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act. There have been isolated reports of assaults against individuals in this group.
Advisory to mitigate risks for women and LGBTI personnel:
- LGBTI persons should be mindful of conservative local attitudes and be aware that public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Public acts such as handholding or kissing between same-sex couples are generally not seen in Malaysia.
- If you are transgender or gender nonconforming, cross-dressing should be approached with caution due to the potential implications and consequences.
- If you are harassed because of your orientation or gender, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible. Avoid escalating the situation by confronting the harasser. If you are being followed, seek refuge in a busy establishment or head to the nearest police station.
- Any activities that draw attention to your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression should be carefully considered, as they may lead to unwanted attention or consequences under local laws.
- Be cautious with new acquaintances—criminals may target or attempt to extort LGBTI foreigners.
- Respect local laws and cultural conventions, even if you do not agree with them. It is important to comply with the legal and social norms of the country.
- Avoid traveling alone after business hours, particularly at night or in poorly lit areas. Stay vigilant in backstreets or areas with limited lighting.
- If someone approaches you or inappropriately touches you, try to remove yourself from the situation. If this is not possible, call out for help.
- If you are the victim of a gender-based crime, report the incident to the local authorities and UNDSS within 24 hours.
Know your sexual boundaries and remember that you have the right to say “No” under any circumstances. Communicate your limits firmly and clearly. The absence of a “no” does not imply consent.
DSS Country Security Briefings and Country Security Risk Management include specific LGBTI-related security risk mitigations. For more information, contact UNDSS to obtain a copy of the Aide Memoire, Malaysia: Immediate Response to Gender-Based Security Incidents.
*What Presenters Can Say*
Presenters can speak openly about topics such as:
• Race and racial inequalities
• Discrimination
• Social and educational inequities
• Children’s rights
• Inclusion and marginalised communities, including LGBTQI
• Personal experiences, stories, and professional insights
As long as these discussions are:
Respectful
Non-judgmental
Focused on learning, inclusion, and understanding
Not targeting any individual or group with blame or negative language
Centered on improving children’s lives, systems, and practices
*What Presenters Should Avoid*
Presenters should not:
✘ Make political statements attacking specific governments, leaders, or policies
✘ Promote activism that could put participants or hosts at risk
✘ Identify or label individuals or groups in a harmful or unsafe way
✘ Share content that violates local cultural boundaries or could compromise safety
*Simple Guideline*
You can talk about sensitive issues — race, discrimination, inequalities, diversity, LGBTQI inclusion — as long as the tone is educational, respectful, and focused on children, community well-being, and professional learning.
The goal is to encourage reflection and understanding, not confrontation.
Crime
Violent crime against foreigners is relatively rare in Malaysia. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and snatch-and-grab incidents, is more common, particularly in tourist areas. To reduce risk, it is important to always safeguard credit cards and use them only at reputable establishments.
Air Pollution
Transboundary smog and haze is a recurring issues in Malaysia and Singapore, primarily caused by smoke from fires in neighboring Indonesia. The haze can lead to breathing difficulties, upper respiratory infections, respiratory illnesses, skin allergies, and irritation of the eyes. To stay informed about air quality, you can monitor the situation by downloading the BreezoMeter app, which provides daily updates on air quality in your location. You can access real-time air quality information via the following link: Real-time Air Quality Index Visual Map