Latest news with #LGBT
Sinar Daily
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Sinar Daily
Seribu Tahun opens dialogue, not agendas, on LGBTQ+ themes in Malay-Muslim storytelling
For many Malaysians who tuned into Seribu Tahun, the show's exploration of LGBTQ+ themes might appear bold, even unexpected. But to those who have closely followed the trajectory of its creators, this narrative choice felt like an earnest effort to grapple with the realities on our social periphery. Through heightened emotion, layered storytelling and a cultural lens rooted in local sensibilities, it dares to engage with contemporary issues often whispered but rarely explored in mainstream media. A deliberate and responsible narrative approach Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Faculty of Film, Theatre and Animation lecturer, Ts Mastura Muhammad believes this approach is far from haphazard. It is, in fact, grounded in deep cultural reflection and narrative responsibility. 'I approach Seribu Tahun with a critical awareness of its narrative ambition and the socio-cultural realities it seeks to engage. Having followed the director and production team's earlier works, it is clear they consistently produce high-quality content grounded in Malay-Muslim sociocultural contexts. 'Within this framework, the inclusion of LGBT themes in Seribu Tahun does not come across as an imposed agenda, but rather as a deliberate, reflective engagement with pressing contemporary issues. 'This thematic direction suggests a responsible and courageous attempt to expose, educate and interrogate societal anxieties; often through narrative exaggeration or heightened emotion to ensure audience engagement,' she said in an interview with Sinar Daily. Mastura pointed out that the series is not merely provocative for provocation's sake, but instead strives to expose, educate and interrogate societal anxieties, often through narrative exaggeration or heightened emotion to ensure audience engagement. But how does this creative risk play out within Malaysia's complex cultural and religious tapestry? To understand that, Mastura suggests we shift our view of media from mirror to lens. 'In the Malaysian context, the common saying 'art imitates life' may oversimplify the role of media. A more fitting interpretation might be that art represents life; filtered through cultural, political and narrative conventions. 'Since genres like science fiction are still developing in our local television landscape, most Malaysian dramas remain rooted in social realism, thereby serving as platforms for social commentary. Within this genre, directors often use heightened storytelling elements to maintain emotional engagement. 'It is essential, however, to view a drama series in its entirety rather than focusing on isolated scenes. Often, controversial moments are juxtaposed with scenes that offer resolution or contextual balance. 'This dialectical structure - tension followed by resolution - is central to storytelling. Thus, even representations of LGBT identities that may provoke discomfort can spark necessary dialogue within Malaysia's multicultural and multi-religious society,' she added. Seribu Tahun's narrative sparks dialogue, not agendas, on LGBT themes in Malay-Muslim storytelling. Photo: Facebook The importance of media literacy and audience interpretation Of course, any depiction of marginalised communities - particularly in a conservative society - risks misinterpretation. But here, media literacy plays a crucial role. Mastura highlighted the shift away from outdated assumptions of how media influences audiences. 'From a media studies lens, it is important to recognise that audience reception is neither passive nor homogenous. Viewers interpret content through a range of filters -cultural background, religious belief, education and socio-political context. 'The once-dominant 'hypodermic needle' theory of media influence has long given way to more nuanced models like encoding or decoding, which recognise varied audience interpretations. 'The fear that media representation directly shapes youth behaviour is often exaggerated and not strongly supported by empirical evidence. On the contrary, when stories involving marginalised identities are told with cultural sensitivity and narrative depth, they can foster empathy, understanding and critical reflection,' she said. It is within this space - 'between provocation and pedagogy, representation and restraint,' as Mastura puts it - that Seribu Tahun finds its power and perhaps, its purpose.
Sinar Daily
2 hours ago
- General
- Sinar Daily
Early exposure to sexuality in schools sparks worry among parents abroad
IN a quiet suburb of a Western country thousands of kilometres from home, a Malaysian mother of two juggles the everyday demands of parenthood - but her greatest concern isn't about groceries or the cost of living. It's about values. With two young children under the age of five, the mother - who requested anonymity for privacy reasons is caught in the crosscurrents of modern education and personal conviction. Her daughter, barely four, currently attends a private religious kindergarten. It's a costly decision, one that weighs heavily on the family's finances. But it's a choice she stands by, even if it means tightening their belts. 'I actually want to send my daughter to a public school, of course, it's more affordable. "But I fear what she might be exposed to, she told Sinar Daily recently Her hesitation stems from the fact that, in many parts of the Western education system, discussions on sexuality, gender identity and LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) themes are introduced as early as four years old. This approach, especially in the Western world, meant to promote inclusivity and acceptance, is viewed by many as progressive and necessary. For this Malaysian mother, however, it raises deeply personal and cultural questions. 'My general concern is exposing kids so early on about LGBT and multiple genders as part of the education system. 'While being inclusive and accepting of the LGBTQ and multiple gender community in our society is important, we must also find the balance to respect other people's religion and beliefs,' she said. She makes it clear she is not against co-existence or acceptance. In fact, her own circle of friends includes members of the LGBTQ community. 'Some of my very close friends and colleagues are part of the LGBTQ community, but we learn to accept each other's differences and respect each other's values. 'There is absolutely no condemning of each other's beliefs, values or religions… as long as we learn to live with each other,' she said. But where she draws the line is the idea of early, structured exposure to topics on sexuality in schools. A man wearing a mask takes part in the formation of the world's biggest LGBT pride flag at Zocalo Square in Mexico City, Mexico, on June 22, 2025. (Photo by Rodrigo Oropeza / AFP) 'I can't force people to convert to Christianity or impose my religious values on them. I would expect the same from the LGBTQ community. 'We live in a very diverse community. We learn to live together peacefully and respectfully. We acknowledge they exist, but in no way do I need the government or school or someone to intentionally expose my children to their sexuality at such a young age,' she said. For now, the private kindergarten remains her family's middle ground. A compromise between embracing diversity and preserving the religious framework she wants her children to grow up with. But the looming question of public school still hangs over her. As her children grow and education becomes more structured, she knows more difficult decisions lie ahead. Raising children has become not just a matter of nurturing but navigating religious and cultural values. Unfortunately, this mother is not the only one experiencing mixed emotions over inclusivity, acceptance and early exposure. Two more Malaysian mothers living in North America shares similar sentiments. Both women - Muslims, said they were still figuring out the best way forward before their children enters formal education, in Malaysian terms 'Standard 1'. For these mothers, returning to Malaysia where things are much more conservative and discussions on sexuality and multiple genders are still a taboo, remains a distance. One mother said: 'For now, we will have to educate and impart knowledge and values the best way possible, may they remember our beliefs and the right way to handle things', adding that although Islam does acknowledge intersex (khans) or ambiguous genitalia, there is a way to approach things.
Sinar Daily
2 hours ago
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Avoiding LGBTQ+ issues may leave youth misinformed and vulnerable
OPEN conversations about LGBTQ+ issues, although sensitive, are crucial for society. Avoiding or suppressing these discussions can backfire, leading to misinformation, confusion, and long-term social challenges. Encouraging respectful dialogue helps build understanding and resilience, especially among young people already exposed to these topics online. Rather than hiding from the issue, society must engage with it openly and wisely. The risks of silence and suppression University Putra Malaysia, Institute for Social Science Studies (IPSAS), Laboratory of Youth and Community Wellbeing, Head Laboratory, Dr Aini Azeqa Ma'rof said avoiding LGBT topics may seem like a way to protect cultural or religious values, but it often creates more problems. From a social psychology perspective, silence can lead to misunderstanding, fear, and shame. She pointed out that many Malaysian youth already encounter LGBT content on social media, regardless of whether adults talk about it. 'If we remain silent, young people may turn to online influencers, strangers, or unreliable websites for answers. Without proper guidance, they may develop misunderstandings, confusion, or even harmful ideas. 'Talking about this topic openly, in respectful and age-appropriate ways, gives us the chance to correct wrong ideas and offer balanced perspectives,' she said when contacted recently. Teenage years are a critical time for identity formation, she noted, and if young people's questions are ignored or met with fear, they may feel isolated or ashamed. This can harm their mental health and distance them from their families and communities. She further said that talking about LGBTQ+ does not mean are supporting it, it means helping the young people understand the world around them, and how to make choices based on their values. These conversations can still reflect our religious and cultural beliefs, as long as they are done with wisdom and compassion. Dr Aini stressed that talking about LGBT issues does not mean endorsing them, it's about helping young people understand the world around them while staying grounded in their values. 'In today's world, staying silent is not neutral, it is a choice. If we want to guide our youth, we need to be present in the conversation, not absent,' she added. Image for illustrative purposes only. - Canva Social media's influence and the need for safe spaces Dr Aini also highlighted the powerful influence of platforms like TikTok, where youth are exposed to content on gender, identity, and relationships. Rather than trying to block access, she suggested the better approach is to create safe spaces for discussion and teach critical thinking. 'If parents or teachers respond with anger or shame, youth may shut down and turn to less trustworthy sources,' she said. Adults should ask open questions like 'What do you think this means?' or 'How does this fit with our values?' to encourage reflection over reaction. Media literacy is essential, she added, as many youth don't understand how algorithms shape what they see online. Teaching them to analyse content critically gives them more control over their beliefs. Dr Aini noted parents and educators should also express their values clearly but kindly, as young people are more likely to listen when they feel respected. 'We can't control everything our children see. But we can influence how they understand it. 'Our job is not to isolate them, but to anchor them, with faith, knowledge, and respect so they can stand firm in a complex world,' she said. Suppressing LGBT conversations fuels misinformation Echoing this view, University Putra Malaysia, Faculty of Human Ecology, Department of Social and Development Sciences, senior lecturer, Dr Wan Munira Wan Jaafar said that suppressing LGBT discussions only deepens misinformation and stigma. Avoiding the topic can push youth toward online sources that lack context or promote polarised views. "Discussions about LGBT issues should be age-appropriate, context-sensitive, and academically framed. 'They are not about advocacy, but about equipping youth to understand the complexities of identity, diversity, and media influence. 'Moreover, silence on these issues may inadvertently increase social marginalisation and mental health challenges among youth who are questioning their identity or encountering these themes in daily life,' she said. In reality, many educators and parents are already addressing these issues quietly. Dr Wan Munira highlighted that some secondary school counsellors in urban areas of Malaysia have received private questions from students exposed to LGBTQ+ content online, showing that the conversation is already taking place, though not always in safe or structured settings. She stressed that instead of reacting with fear or censorship, parents and educators should offer thoughtful, supportive guidance. She noted that platforms like TikTok act as cultural spaces where young people encounter a wide range of ideas. Simply avoiding or blocking content is not a sustainable strategy. Instead, she recommended equipping youth with media literacy skills, understanding how algorithms work, evaluating credibility, and distinguishing between content that represents versus promotes certain ideas. Open, values-based dialogue is key, she added. Parents and teachers can create safe spaces where youth feel heard, while gently grounding conversations in shared moral and cultural values. 'This isn't about choosing between acceptance or rejection. It's about empathy, understanding, and a more nuanced view of identity,' she said. Bridging generational gaps through dialogue Recognising generational gaps is also important. Dr Wan Munira pointed to intergenerational learning models, such as workshops led by NGOs like Empower, where youth and adults explore media together to build shared understanding. She also urged a shift from reactive strategies like banning or silence to proactive approaches focused on mentoring, critical thinking, and compassionate engagement. 'Young people are already forming opinions online. The question is, will their understanding be shaped by silence, or by responsible adult guidance?' she added.
Sinar Daily
2 hours ago
- General
- Sinar Daily
Malaysian youth need critical media literacy to navigate LGBTQ+ conversations online
LGBTQ+ content is no longer hidden in the margins of the internet, it's front and centre across social media platforms where young Malaysians spend most of their time. From trending TikTok to Instagram reels celebrating global pride movements, exposure to diverse sexual identities is now part of the everyday scroll. However, this isn't something that can be filtered out or turned off; it's embedded in the digital culture shaping the next generation. In a country as religiously and culturally diverse as Malaysia, conversations around LGBTQ+ topics remain sensitive and often polarising. However, with global content flooding the feeds of young users daily, experts say that shielding them is neither practical nor productive. Instead, what's needed is preparation, rooted in critical thinking, empathy, and moral clarity. The need for critical media literacy University Putra Malaysia, Institute for Social Science Studies (IPSAS), Laboratory of Youth and Community Wellbeing, Head Laboratory, Dr Aini Azeqa Ma'rof said today's generation is growing up in a completely different environment compared to their predecessors. 'TikTok and Instagram are not just for fun, they are powerful tools that shape how young people think about identity, relationships, and society. 'Among the topics that often appear on these platforms is the issue of LGBT, usually framed around ideas of acceptance, diversity, and human rights. 'For many young Malaysians, the challenge is not just in understanding what they see online, but in making sense of it within the moral, cultural, and religious values they have grown up with,' she said in an interview with Sinar Daily. She stressed the importance of equipping young people with media literacy skills that go beyond simply knowing how to use technology. They need to learn to ask more probing questions. Who is producing this content? What values are being conveyed? Does this reflect or challenge my own beliefs? 'This kind of reflection helps them make sense of diverse perspectives without being easily swayed by sensationalism or extreme views,' she explained. In Malaysia's unique context, where Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Indigenous beliefs intersect, the youth need tools to reflect critically while remaining anchored in their cultural and religious roots. Photo: Canva Balancing empathy and moral clarity Dr Aini also highlighted the need for empathy, not as blind agreement, but as a way to acknowledge human dignity while holding firm to personal values. In a multicultural country like Malaysia, social maturity means respecting others without feeling personally threatened. 'Moral clarity is no longer about memorising a list of do's and don'ts. It's about learning how to make ethical decisions, balancing personal beliefs with social responsibility,' she said. She believes the solution lies in collective conversations, parents, educators, and community leaders must engage youth in open dialogue. Not to lecture, but to guide. Not to dictate, but to nurture reflection and confidence. In the meantime, University Putra Malaysia, Faculty of Human Ecology, Department of Social and Development Sciences, senior lecturer, Dr Wan Munira Wan Jaafar shared a similar view. She pointed out that platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become arenas where identity, values, and global norms are constantly negotiated. 'Young Malaysians are exposed to global perspectives every day. 'We must invest in comprehensive media literacy education that goes beyond technical skills to include moral reasoning, intercultural understanding, and critical engagement with content,' she said when contacted recently. Preparing young Malaysians isn't just about protecting them, it's about empowering them to think deeply, act wisely, and engage the world with both strength and compassion. Photo: Canva Values-based education for a multicultural society She noted that in Malaysia's unique context, where Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Indigenous beliefs intersect, the youth need tools to reflect critically while remaining anchored in their cultural and religious roots. Dr Wan Munira said some schools have already introduced values-based media literacy modules in moral or civics classes. These programs encourage students to analyse viral content and engage in respectful, structured discussions. 'The key lies in dialogical education, where the aim is not to promote a particular lifestyle but to create safe spaces for inquiry and understanding. We must differentiate between discussing a phenomenon and endorsing it,' she added. According to her, approaching the subject from a socio-cultural rather than ideological standpoint helps students understand how global narratives shape local identity without forcing them to abandon their core values. She further said that at the university level, interdisciplinary courses in communication, sociology, and religious studies are already examining Western portrayals of gender and sexuality, contrasting them with Malaysian perspectives to foster dialogue rather than division. 'These analyses are then contrasted with local norms, allowing students to appreciate both divergence and coexistence without being forced into binary positions,' she said. Ultimately, both academics agree that silence and fear-based avoidance do more harm than good. When difficult conversations are handled with wisdom, they promote understanding, not conflict. In this digital era, preparing young Malaysians isn't just about protecting them, it's about empowering them to think deeply, act wisely, and engage the world with both strength and compassion.
New York Post
8 hours ago
- Politics
- New York Post
Big Apple top cop slams exclusion of LGBT cops in uniform at NYC Pride March as ‘deeply offensive'
This Pride is a damn shame. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch ripped organizers of this weekend's city Pride March for banning LGBT cops from participating in uniform even though the festivities are relying on police for security. 3 There will be a police presence at the event Sunday. Brigitte Stelzer Advertisement 'It is deeply offensive that for the fifth year in a row, the NYPD's gay officers' action league is banned from fully participating in the New York City Pride March,' the top cop said during a press briefing Friday. 'It is the height of hypocrisy that uniformed officers are fit to line the parade route and keep everyone safe, but they are unable to march in their own uniform and under their own banner.' The event organizer, Heritage of Pride, first informed the Gay Officer Action League (GOAL) in 2021 its members would not be allowed to march in the parade during a wave of George Floyd anti-cop sentiment. Advertisement The ban was supposed to initially last four years before the organization would reconsider its prohibition. Det. Brian Downey, president of GOAL, argued the policy makes 'queer officers vanish, while the same institution is asked to secure the march.' 3 Gay members of the New York City Police Department prepare to march in the annual Queens Gay Pride Parade in 2023. Corbis via Getty Images 'The ones being asked to stay out of sight are us, the gay, the trans, the queer, and our allied officers who have risked everything to serve both this city and this community. It is not about safety, it is about exclusion' Downey said. Advertisement 'We've heard the justifications. We've heard that it's about safe spaces and community trauma, and we respect and we acknowledge that that trauma is real. But this policy does not create safety. It creates friction and fiction.' Heritage of Pride said in a statement it rejected GOAL from marching because the law enforcement group wanted its officer to march with 'the concealed carry of their firearm.' 'GOAL, the Gay Officers Action League, asked for an exception to our weapon policy so their members could march in their full dress uniforms – which includes the concealed carry of their firearm,' a Pride spokesperson said. 'Our membership voted this year to continue our policy for all Marchers without any exceptions for GOAL or other organizations.' Advertisement The Post has sought further comment from GOAL. Tisch said she had 'productive' talks with Heritage of Pride ahead of the parade, but at the '11th hour' she was told cops could not march in uniform two weeks ago. 'I was shocked,' she said, adding organizers did not provide a reason for the prohibition. Mayor Eric Adams said at the briefing he doesn't understand the logic. 3 Tisch and Adams both criticized the decision. Matthew McDermott 'I truly support what GOAL is pushing for,' Hizzoner said. 'The organizers made this decision, members of the LGBTQ+ community and the city — they are not making that decision.' Tisch, during briefing mainly focused on security, said there are no known, credible threats to the parade that is set to start at 11 a.m. or related events this weekend. She said her department has been working with law enforcement partners and organizers to keep attendees safe.
