Criminal Law

Band’s Performance Interrupted and Aborted Due to Male-Male Kiss

When the renowned British band, The 1975, came to perform in Malaysia, the lead singer kissed the male bassist on stage, resulting in the immediate halt of the performance and their departure from the stage.

Is it illegal for men to kiss each other?

In Malaysia, there is no specific section in Penal Code that explicitly states that men kissing each other is illegal.

However, there are laws that criminalize sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Is it illegal for sexual acts between men?

Yes, it is illegal.

Under Section 377A of the Penal Code:

“Any person who has sexual connection with another person by the introduction of the penis into the anus or mouth of the other person is said to commit carnal intercourse against the order of nature.

Whoever voluntarily commits carnal intercourse against the order of nature shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 20 years, and shall also be liable to whipping.”