GEORGE TOWN: “Mukhannath” or transgenders should change their appearance if they want to be in mosques or surau so that they do not look odd and avoid stirring uncomfortable feelings among other worshippers, says the Penang Mufti.

       Datuk Seri Dr Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor opined that there is no other way for these individuals to be in the houses of worship unless they change their appearance.

       “We are very sympathetic to this group and hope that they are accepted by the general public. However, they should also make an effort to adapt to the culture and norms of regular society,” he said in a statement yesterday.

       He was commenting on the statement by Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Ahmad Marzuk Shaary that the government was looking into emulating Perlis in banning transgender individuals from entering mosques in the Federal Territories.

       Ahmad Marzuk said Perlis’ decision is appropriate to maintain the sanctity of mosques and avoid confusion among the community.

       Meanwhile, Wan Salim said transgender individuals have actually wronged themselves by choosing to practise a lifestyle that is contrary to the laws of nature and religion, adding that such action will cause them to face various challenges in life, especially when interacting with others.

       He also urged state Islamic Religious Departments as well as mosque and surau administrations to play their roles in dealing with the issue.

       “The mosque administration should advise the group so that they respect the sanctity of the Islamic houses of worship with appropriate attire and no longer be looked down upon and considered strange,” he said.

       He added that if the group is still persistent, the mosque management should be firm in preventing them from entering the premises because it involves public interest. — Bernama