This archive report was first published on 8 November 2019.
On November 8, 2019, an Islamic court in Selangor state, outside Kuala Lumpur, handed down jail and caning sentences to five Malaysian men for attempting to have gay sex.
The verdicts follow the caning last year of two women for lesbian sex, highlighting growing concerns about the climate for the homosexual community in Malaysia.
According to reports, four of the men were sentenced to six months in jail and six strokes of the cane, as well as fines of 4,800 ringgit ($1,100). Another man received a seven-month jail sentence, six strokes of the cane, and a 4,900 ringgit fine.
The group was convicted of attempting to have intercourse against the order of nature, a crime under Islamic laws.
Gay rights activist Numan Afifi, who attended the court hearing, described the sentences as a "gross injustice" and said they would create a "culture of fear".
Malaysia operates a dual-track legal system, with Islamic courts handling some matters for Muslim citizens.
AFP could not immediately contact court officials or the men's lawyers.
