Malaysia blocks hook-up apps
Censorship and persecution of queer people continues.
Continuing it's censorship of all things queer, Malaysian authorities have blocked access to hook-up apps such as Grindr and Blued.
Internet access in Malaysia is overseen by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). It's this authority that has blocked apps the enable men to connect and meet for sex.
According to media reporting about the move, the MCMC is seeking to strengthen the block through legislative measures.
A statement by the MCMC justified it's block on hook-up apps on the basis that they violate the domestic laws of Malaysia - linking the platforms to "the spread of pornographic or immoral content, exploitation or abuse, fraud, child abuse or threats to public safety.”
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.
Is homosexuality legal in Malaysia?
No. Malaysia retains the colonial-era criminalisation of sodomy that it inherited from Britain.
Punishments could include prison for up to 20 years.
Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?
No. There are no protections against discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.
Is there Marriage Equality in Malaysia?
No. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Malaysia?
Malaysia is a socially conservative country. Homosexuality is a taboo subject.
Homophobia is systemic, and LGBTQ people conceal their sexuality.
