Kuala Lumpur, 20 August 2018 – The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy supports Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Hannah Yeoh and Syahredzan Johan’s condemnation of the recent escalation of harassment, discrimination, hate speech and violence against transgender persons in Malaysia. We support their call for urgent action to address the state of injustice and demonisation of this community which has resulted in perpetrators of such acts going unpunished, and transgender persons living in fear.

“Everyone is equally entitled to the rights and protections provided for under Malaysian law and that includes being able to walk about without having to fear being beaten up or subject to physical and mental harm. There is no justification for such violence on another human being,” said Chief Executive Azrul Mohd Khalib.

“Discriminating based on gender identity and transgender status is simply wrong. It results in significant obstacles and barriers to health-seeking behaviour. Discrimination discourages people from seeking treatment and care; and those who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) may have trouble finding alternative healthcare services if they are turned away. Discrimination in health care settings endangers LGBT people’s lives through delays or denials of medically necessary care.”

“Sexual minorities, transgender persons in particular, face tremendous discrimination and social stigma which complicate and obstract their ability to access and be covered for their health care and treatment needs. Discrimination and social stigmatisation will result in increased incidences of mistreatment, harassment, or being denied service outright.”

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