Does shaming unmarried couples on motorbikes address root causes of premarital sex?

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Shaming Unmarried Couples on Motorbikes Does Not Address Root Causes of Premarital Sex

The apprehension of 54 unmarried couples in Terengganu by the Terengganu Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (JHEAT) for riding closely on motorbikes, with the stated concern that such proximity could lead to sexual intercourse and out-of-wedlock children, highlights an approach that is widely considered ineffective in tackling the underlying issues of premarital sex. JHEAT has also indicated potential action against unmarried couples in cars, signalling a broad strategy focused on physical separation rather than addressing the root causes.
Ineffective Separation Strategies

The practice of apprehending unmarried couples for riding together on motorbikes, as seen with the 54 individuals in Terengganu, is presented as a measure to prevent sexual intercourse and subsequent pregnancies. JHEAT Commissioner Datuk Wan Mohd Wan Ibrahim advised against close proximity on motorbikes, directly linking it to potential sexual acts and out-of-wedlock births. The council's contemplation of extending such measures to couples in cars suggests a policy that prioritises physical segregation as a means of social control.
The Harm of Ignorance Over Knowledge

Arguments against comprehensive sex education often stem from the assumption that knowledge itself is harmful, leading individuals to engage in sexual activity. However, evidence suggests that ignorance and unresolved curiosity are more detrimental. The resistance to providing thorough sex education is identified as a significant factor contributing to persistent rates of unwanted pregnancies and baby dumping cases.
The Role of Comprehensive Sex Education

Effective sex education, as described, encompasses teaching about the human body, reproduction, the risks of unsafe sex, and the implications of unwanted pregnancies, alongside the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of puberty. This approach focuses on providing accurate information and encouraging safe practices. The perspective offered is that teaching and promoting safe sex is a more effective strategy for reducing unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and baby dumping than relying on religious fear.
Cultural Stigma and the Need for Open Dialogue

The ingrained cultural tendency to avoid discussing sex openly creates a taboo around the subject, which is then passed down through generations. This reluctance, rather than religious doctrine, is identified as a primary driver behind the limited discussion of sex education. In Islam, sex is not inherently considered a "dirty word" but an important aspect of life. Therefore, dismantling the stigma surrounding sex is considered a crucial first step in addressing the issue from a fresh perspective.

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Does shaming unmarried couples on motorbikes address root causes of premarital sex?

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