In a recent parliamentary session in Malaysia, the Pasir Salak Member of Parliament (MP) made a controversial proposal during discussions on the Mental Health (Amendment) Bill. The MP suggested that individuals identifying themselves as part of the LGBTQ+ movement should be classified as having mental health issues.
Kapar MP Halimah Ali expressed her agreement with the suggestion, stating that she would incorporate it into her speech. She further emphasized the significance of addressing mental health disorders as a prevalent issue in the country.
1. Pasir Salak MP Jamaluddin Yahya has suggested that those in the LGBT community should be classified as having mental health issues.
— BFM News (@NewsBFM) May 23, 2023
He said this in the Dewan Rakyat, during the debate on the Mental Health (Amendment) Bill. pic.twitter.com/Sj4NlVWj55
The Mental Health (Amendment) Bill currently under discussion in the Malaysian Parliament aims to enhance mental health services, support, and rights in the country. The proposed amendments seek to improve existing legislation to ensure adequate access to mental health care and protect the rights of individuals facing mental health challenges.
The Pasir Salak MP's proposal to classify LGBTQ+ individuals as having mental health issues has drawn strong criticism from various quarters. Some have argued that the classification of sexual orientation and gender identity as mental health issues contradicts scientific evidence and international standards.
The debate is currently still ongoing.
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