Jakim warns against promotion of books with LGBT content among children

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) says it will not take it lightly against any attempt to promote books that encourage minors to be influenced by the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture, in particular among Muslims in the country.

Jakim director-general Hakimah Mohd Yusoff said the department had received a complaint on a viral video published by "Cordova Media" which revealed attempts to promote books containing content supporting the LGBT culture.

She said it was found that the video was recorded abroad, and that none of the books mentioned were sold at local bookstores.

"Books like these not only promote homosexual culture, but also violate the sensitivities of religion, law and culture of this country," she said, adding that Jakim always cooperated with the home ministry to monitor any publication of printed material that promotes the LGBT culture.

Malaysian law stipulates that the content of such books violates Section 7(1) of the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (Act 301) as it may be deemed harmful to public order, morality and public interest.

Hakimah advised parents to always monitor their children to ensure they do not buy any reading material that has negative elements and which contradict the teachings of Islam.