Work Pressure Can Lead to Homosexuality, Says Malaysian Minister — Statement Sparks Outrage

Kuala Lumpur: A controversial statement by Malaysia’s Minister for Religious Affairs has triggered widespread criticism and ridicule, after he suggested that workplace stress could be one of the factors pushing people toward homosexuality.

Responding to a written question in Parliament, Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), claimed that “work pressure” may contribute to individuals adopting what he described as an “LGBT lifestyle.” His remarks immediately drew backlash from civil society groups, human rights activists, and social media users.

The minister was replying to a question raised by PAS lawmaker Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff, who sought details on LGBT trends in Malaysia. In his written response, Dr. Zulkifli said that factors such as social influence, sexual experiences, workplace stress, and personal circumstances could potentially influence sexual orientation. He cited a 2017 study to support his claim and added that a decline in religious practices may also play a role.

Public Ridicule and Criticism

The statement quickly became the subject of online mockery. Many Malaysians questioned the scientific basis of the claim, while others used satire to criticize the minister’s reasoning.

One social media user sarcastically asked whether the minister himself works “less hard,” since he had “apparently not become gay yet.” Another joked, “I’m surprised my entire office hasn’t turned gay given the workload.” A third quipped that they would support the theory “if it means shorter working hours.”

Human rights organizations accused the minister of promoting misinformation and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about the LGBT community.

LGBT Rights in Malaysia

Malaysia remains one of the countries where same-sex relations are criminalized. Under the federal penal code, dating back to 1936, “unnatural sexual acts” and “gross indecency” are punishable offences, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison and corporal punishment, including caning. These laws apply to both men and women.

According to official data cited by the minister, 135 cases related to LGBT activities were recorded between 2022 and 2025. The government has also acknowledged that it does not maintain comprehensive data on the size of the LGBT population in the country.

The controversy has once again highlighted the deep divide in Malaysia over issues of sexuality, religion, and human rights, with critics warning that such statements by senior officials further marginalize already vulnerable communities.