Malaysian LGBTQ glamping event faces conservative backlash: ‘we are not criminals’
Police have launched an investigation into ‘Glamping With Pride’ after Islamic authorities raised an outcry
The dispute escalated on Monday after the Sultan of Selangor, Sharafuddin Idris Shah, ordered “firm action” against any activity linked to the retreat, according to a joint statement by the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) and the Selangor mufti.
The statement said the Sultan had summoned the heads of both bodies to the Selangor palace and instructed them to ensure tough action was taken against the programme, scheduled for January 17–18 in the Hulu Langat district.
It added that the Sultan opposed any festival, parade, activity, celebration or promotion linked to an LGBTQ “lifestyle” anywhere in Selangor, and rejected the establishment of any associations, clubs or NGOs related to LGBTQ groups in the state.
Jejaka, an organisation supporting gay, bisexual and queer men, said this weekend’s planned retreat was “lawful camping activities at a registered venue [that] does not violate any Malaysian law”.
“Camping, gatherings and community education are legal activities in the country,” it said in a statement, adding that the private, vetted gathering would focus on well-being and health awareness, including HIV education.