"You Have to Keep Yourself Hidden": Perspectives from Malaysian Malay-Muslim Men Who Have Sex With Men on Policy, Network, Community, and Individual Influences on HIV Risk

Keywords

Malay-Muslim, homosexuality, stigma, discrimination, HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Malay-Muslim men who have sex with men (MSM) are marginalized and hidden in Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country in southeast Asia. We explored the policy, network, community, and individual factors related to HIV infection among Malay-Muslim MSM through 26 in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion (n = 5) conducted in Kuala Lumpur and Kota Bharu between October 2013 and January 2014. As religion plays an important role in their lives, participants viewed homosexuality as a sin. Low risk perception and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS were common, and most participants expressed reluctance to consult a doctor unless they had symptoms. Additionally, buying condoms was embarrassing and anxiety-producing. Fear of discrimination by health care providers and community hindered participants from disclosing sexual behaviors and accessing health services. Homophobic comments and policies by the government and religious leaders were concerns of participants. A safe and enabling environment is needed to reduce HIV risks among Malay-Muslim MSM.

Original Publication Citation

Sin How Lim, Shan-Estelle Brown, Stacey A. Shaw, Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Frederick L. Altice & Chris Beyrer (2020) “You Have to Keep Yourself Hidden”: Perspectives From Malaysian Malay-Muslim Men Who Have Sex With Men on Policy, Network, Community, and Individual Influences on HIV Risk, Journal of Homosexuality, 67:1, 104-126.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2018-10-11

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6807

Publisher

Journal of Homosexuality

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Social Work

University Standing at Time of Publication

Assistant Professor

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