PETALING JAYA: Civil society group Jejaka has cancelled its “Glamping with Pride” programme following what it described as serious and escalating safety concerns.
According to the group, this includes threats of violence as well as death threats directed at the organisation and its members.
In a statement on Tuesday (Jan 13), it said the decision was made after the venue owner withdrew the booking on safety grounds and after the group received what it described as credible and explicit threats through social media.
While the event has been cancelled on safety grounds, Jejaka said it remains committed to its values and work.
“This decision was made to protect lives. Our work in health education, community support and the defence of dignity and human rights would continue in safe and responsible forms,” it said.
Jejaka added that the threats have been documented and a police report will be lodged.
The organisation said the programme had initially drawn only 14 participants before it was sensationalised online.
During a single weekend, interest rose to about 50 people, but intimidation and threats ultimately led to the cancellation, denying participants what Jejaka described as a safe opportunity to learn about health, well-being and community care.
Jejaka also expressed concern that public statements by authorities, institutions and political figures failed to de-escalate tensions or clearly affirm the duty to protect minorities from harm.
“Silence or ambiguity in the face of threats normalises intimidation, and that failure has tangible consequences,” they said.
The group reiterated that LGBTQ+ individuals are part of Malaysian society and are entitled to safety and dignity under the Federal Constitution and the rule of law.
Jejaka explained that the programme was intended to be a private, community-based health and well-being programme, which included educational activities aimed at improving health literacy and reducing stigma around issues such as HIV.
Jejaka also thanked civil society groups and individuals who expressed solidarity and support, saying such messages mattered deeply amid the backlash.
