Politicians Suggest Categorising LGBT Community as Those With Mental Disorder, M’sians Debate

During the parliamentary session yesterday (23 May), Dr. Halimah Ali spoke about mental health to decriminalise suicide. Another politician took the opportunity to share his take on the people who should be given attention to.

Perikatan Nasional’s Jamaludin Yahya suggested that the LGBT community should also be categorised as those with mental disorder. 

Dr Halimah Ali responded and expressed her agreement, saying that she will consider Jamaludin’s suggestions. Dr. Halimah highlighted in Parliament that mental health is a serious issue that should be addressed by everyone.

“We need to get together and handle this issue holistically, especially those who have suicidal thoughts,” Dr. Halimah explained.

However, not everyone was on board with what Jamaludin had in mind. Pakatan Harapan’s Chiew Choon Man thought that it was not appropriate for Jamaludin to label a certain group of people as individuals who suffer from mental disorder without a medical basis. 

Jamaludin also shared his suggestion via his Facebook page last night, but what do Malaysians think of his suggestions?

“So, they’re getting an OKU card?”

The debate has generally received mixed reactions from the public, with some people showing support for Jamaludin’s suggestion. In the meantime, some strongly disagreed with the LGBTQ community being regarded as those with mental disorder.

This stemmed from the fear of the term “mental health” being abused to get away with committing a crime.

“No way. They might get an OKU card and they’ll drive on the wrong lane.”

“No. If they’re categorised as having mental disorder, they might get away from the law’s punishment.”

“So, are they getting an OKU parking in front of the mall while they come out from the car and kiss their partner of the same sex? They should be jailed.”

“You should be categorised as having a mental disorder too for your lousy suggestion. So, the community gets an OKU card and they’ll get away with crime, is that so?”

“I completely agree.”

You can listen to Jamaludin and Dr. Halimah’s discussion below, which was shared via Jamaludin’s Facebook page.

At some point in life, we’re living in an era without a safe haven for mental health. However, when it comes to the LGBTQ community, do you agree with Jamaludin and Dr. Halimah’s take on this? 

Also read: Dream of Working in S’pore? M’sian Explains Why Grass is Not Always Greener on the Other Side