The Religious Affairs Ministry has condemned Malaysia’s participation in a Bangkok transgender beauty pageant, saying the event contradicts Islamic and local values.
PETALING JAYA: The Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) has condemned the participation of an individual in a transgender beauty pageant held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug 30.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the participation had tarnished Malaysia’s image internationally and was contrary to Islamic teachings, local cultural norms and the values of decency and propriety upheld by Malaysians.
“Imitating the opposite gender (tasyabbuh) and promoting a transgender lifestyle are prohibited under Islamic law and Syariah laws in the states.
“Participation in or organisation of such events has never received any support, approval or recognition from the religious authorities or the Malaysian Government,” he said in a statement today.
Zulkifli also urged the public not to sensationalise or glorify matters that contravene Syariah, but instead to uphold the moral values and faith of the Muslim community.
He said the religious authorities would cooperate with relevant agencies to examine possible action under existing laws.
Miss Equality World 2026, which went viral after a participant representing Malaysia appeared on social media, was held in Bangkok from Aug 22 to 30.
However, the participant was not an official representative of the Malaysian Government.
