About Us
About Us
Justice for Sisters is an LGBTIQ and gender-diverse human rights group in Malaysia
Vision
Liberation for LGBTIQ and gender-diverse people in Malaysia from all forms of oppression
Mission
Comprehensive legal reforms for LGBTIQ people in Malaysia
Our Story
The Beginning
In 2010, while we were conducting research and workshops, we met a trans woman from Negeri Sembilan. She shared her legal woes, having just been arrested for the third time because of her gender under the state Syariah criminal law – Section 66. She worried about getting jailed after her friend, recently arrested under the same law, had been sent to prison.
Seeking Solutions
We consulted lawyers, who suggested pursuing a constitutional review…but we needed funds to support the case. This led to brainstorming for a campaign to help.
The Birth of Justice for Sisters
We launched our campaign, “Justice for Sisters”, with a public event at the Annexe Gallery.
A Long Legal Journey
Between 2010 and 2015, we navigated the courts. In 2014, the Court of Appeal declared Section 66 unconstitutional, marking a significant victory.
A Setback
However, the following year, in 2015, the Federal Court overturned the decision.
Advocacy and Community Support
Throughout the legal journey, we worked with communities to build collective knowledge and safety. We engaged in advocacy and research efforts, raising awareness, visibility and understanding of discrimination faced by trans women in Malaysia
Expanding Legal Advocacy
In 2019, Justice for Sisters, alongside other LGBT groups, supported a constitutional review of Section 28 of the Selangor Syariah Criminal Offences Enactment.
Unconstitutional!
In 2021, the Federal Court declared the law unconstitutional.
Fighting Censorship
In 2021, we supported the legal challenge against the “Gay Is OK” book ban.
Our current work
Monitoring and documentation
Monitoring and documenting the situation of human rights of LGBTIQ and gender-diverse people
Legal Reform efforts
Engaging in legal reform efforts through strategic litigation, United Nations processes, and other advocacy efforts
Evidence building
Building evidence and knowledge on the lived experiences of LGBTIQ and gender-diverse people in Malaysia
Awareness raising
Raising awareness of human rights violations faced by LGBTIQ and gender-diverse people in Malaysia.
Movement-building
Strengthening the LGBTIQ and gender-diverse movement in Malaysia
Get involved
Opportunities
Work and intern (subject to funding availability) with us to change lives. Job opportunities updated here.
learn moreConnect With Others
We're part of a netwotk of amazing human rights groups in Malaysia. Find one to connect with.
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