Kelantan Government Calls for Truth Behind Alleged ‘Gay Party’, Urges Fair Investigation
Kuala Lumpur, July 20 (VOM-Voice of Malaysia)— The Kelantan state government has called on authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into a recent police raid in Kota Bharu, where over 20 men were detained for allegedly attending a “gay party.” The incident has sparked controversy after several NGOs and medical professionals claimed the gathering was, in fact, a health-related outreach program.
Kelantan’s Deputy Menteri Besar, Datuk Dr. Fadzli Hassan, stressed the importance of uncovering the truth to avoid injustice and unwarranted public condemnation.
“If the police investigation confirms that the raid was based on credible and accurate intelligence, then firm action must be taken against those involved,” he said in a statement reported by Harian Metro. “However, if the claims by NGOs and individuals are found to be true, then appropriate corrective measures should be implemented. Justice must always take precedence.”
Fadzli cautioned against the dangers of acting on incomplete information, noting that improper procedures and assumptions could lead to social unrest and unfairly tarnish reputations.
“All parties must remain open-minded and prioritize truth and fairness. Every individual deserves the right to just and unbiased treatment,” he added.
The statement follows public criticism from several health-focused NGOs and medical professionals, who rebuked the Kelantan police for misrepresenting the nature of the event. They clarified that the gathering was organized to promote sexual health and provide education on HIV prevention, including condom distribution and voluntary testing.
They also asserted that the program was conducted with support from the Ministry of Health, aiming to reduce stigma and improve public health outcomes, especially within vulnerable communities.
Kelantan police chief Yusoff Mamat previously stated that more than 20 men were arrested at a private bungalow in Kota Bharu on suspicion of participating in a “gay party.” However, the police’s version of events has now come under fire for what NGOs describe as misinformation and a lack of context.
The Malaysian AIDS Council and the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy have also criticized the raid, calling it a setback to Malaysia’s public health efforts and a breach of trust for community-based outreach programs.
This incident has reignited national conversations about LGBTQ+ rights, health education, and law enforcement conduct in Malaysia. Advocates warn that continued stigmatization of sexual health programs could deter at-risk populations from seeking vital healthcare services, further exacerbating public health challenges.
For now, the Kelantan government is urging calm and objectivity as the investigation unfolds. “We must allow the facts to come to light and ensure that justice, not prejudice, leads our response,” Fadzli concluded.
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