Johor’s Groundbreaking LGBTQ Rehab Center
In a groundbreaking move, the Johor government has announced the establishment of Malaysia’s first rehabilitation center dedicated to addressing issues faced by individuals considered deviant to Islamic teachings, particularly those engaging in same-sex relationships.
State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman, Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid, shared details during a recent session of the Johor State Assembly.
The rehabilitation center, set to begin operations in July 2024, will receive funding of RM400,000 (approximately $114,400) from the government. Chairman Mohd Fared emphasized that the initiative aims not only to guide individuals who have deviated from their faith but also to rehabilitate those involved in same-sex relationships.
“The centre is not only to guide these groups but also to steer them back into the right path,” stated Mohd Fared during the assembly session. He highlighted the comprehensive preparation underway, including the setup of offices and training hostels for both male and female participants.
The move has stirred discussions within the LGBTQ community, as this marks the first-of-its-kind initiative in Malaysia. The center is designed not just for religious guidance but also to provide a supportive environment for those convicted of committing same-sex relations by the Syariah Court.
The chairman affirmed that the rehabilitation center would offer awareness programs, counseling services, and religious guidance for Muslim converts. This approach aligns with the government’s commitment to address diverse backgrounds, as evidenced by the data shared by Mohd Fared. Between 2020 and November 2023, 2,845 individuals from various backgrounds, including Chinese, Indian, Iban, Bidayuh, Kadazan, Orang Asli, and foreigners from the Philippines and Vietnam, have registered to convert to Islam.
The establishment of this rehabilitation center reflects the government’s dedication to religious initiatives and addressing the needs of diverse communities within the state. As preparations progress, many will be watching closely to see how this unique initiative unfolds and impacts the lives of those seeking support and guidance in the Johor region.
Sources:
- Noh, M. F. (2023, November 29). Johor to set up first Islamic rehab centre for ‘deviants’, LGBT community. NST Online.
- Cue. (2023, November 29). Johor to set up rehab centre for deviants, those who contradict Islamic faith. The Straits Times.
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