Why were portraits of LGBT activists removed from George Town Festival?

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Portraits of LGBT Activists Removed from George Town Festival Exhibition

Portraits of activists Nisha Ayub and Pang Khee Teik were removed from an exhibition at the George Town Festival (GTF) following an order from the Minister in charge of Islamic affairs, Datuk Mujahid Yusof Rawa. The minister stated that the portraits, which were displayed with the rainbow pride logo and labelled as LGBT activists, were considered to be promoting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) activities. Mujahid asserted that such promotion was not in line with the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government's policy and contravened Malaysia’s religious and cultural norms.
Promotion of LGBT Activities Deemed Against Government Policy

Minister Mujahid Yusof Rawa confirmed that he directed the removal of the portraits because he believed the exhibition was actively promoting LGBT activities. He cited the labelling of the individuals as LGBT activists and their portrayal with the rainbow pride logo within a public gallery as evidence of this promotion. The minister stated that this was inconsistent with the stated policy of the Pakatan Harapan government, which he has consistently articulated in Parliament.
Concerns for Activists' Safety Cited as a Reason

Beyond the policy concerns, Mujahid also explained that the removal was partly intended to protect the activists themselves. He indicated that there had been significant public hostility towards the LGBT group, and he was concerned that the public display of these portraits could incite further negative reactions. The minister expressed a desire to de-escalate potential conflict and prevent the activists from becoming victims of "witch-hunts" due to public outrage over their perceived openness.
Stance on Private vs. Public Practice of LGBT Lifestyle

The minister reiterated his position on the LGBT community, stating that while he cannot prevent individuals from living their "lifestyle" in private, he fundamentally disagrees with its practice being openly displayed. Mujahid emphasised that such open practice is not in accordance with Malaysia's established religious and cultural norms. This stance underpins his decision to intervene in the public exhibition.

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Why were portraits of LGBT activists removed from George Town Festival?

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