Kelantan Moves to Strengthen Syariah Law Targeting LGBT and Immoral Acts

Kota bharu: The Kelantan government is set on reinforcing and amending the Syariah Criminal Code (I) Enactment 2019 (EKJS) to improve its capability in addressing LGBT activities and other immoral acts. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan emphasized the state government's resolve to bolster the law and its enforcement despite previous legal challenges. The enactment, introduced in 2019, targets syariah offences such as sodomy, musahaqah, and acts that contradict religious life. The Deputy Menteri Besar stated that the state does not accept cultures that conflict with Islamic teachings, labeling LGBT practices as violations of human nature that threaten social harmony. To enhance prevention and enforcement, a special committee has been formed, involving several agencies including the Royal Malaysia Police and the Kelantan Islamic Religious Affairs Department. This committee is tasked with coordinating efforts across agencies to combat moral decay and devian t behaviors seen in society. Mohamed Fadzli also noted the implementation of the Rabbani Community Culture Programme, which aims to strengthen Islamic understanding and engage communities at risk of social ills. He urged the federal government and relevant bodies to restrict access to online platforms disseminating immoral content, emphasizing the need for regulation in the digital space to protect societal morals. Additionally, Kelantan police confirmed a recent raid on an LGBT-related event, which led to the discovery of condoms and HIV medication, highlighting ongoing enforcement actions by the authorities.