MUI Professor Advises Against Bullying, Urges Gentle Approach for LGBT Friends

A question on how to properly treat a friend who has already identified as LGBT was raised by a student at the ‘Teenagers Ask, Ulama Answer’ event. The event was held by the Indonesian Ulema Council’s (MUI) Institute of Islamic Arts, Culture and Civilisation (LSBPI) at the Daar el-Qolam Islamic Boarding School in Tangerang Regency on Saturday.

Responding to the student, Professor Umaimah Wahid from Budi Luhur University emphasised that the approach must be kind, supportive, and free from bullying. She stated that the first step is to continuously invite the friend to return to their fitrah, or natural disposition.

If peer advice is not accepted, she suggested directing the individual to someone they trust more and who has the capacity to provide guidance. Professor Umaimah also noted that a person’s social environment requires attention, as one can be influenced by their circle of friends. She recommended inviting the friend to participate in positive character-building activities to distance them from negative influences.

She also addressed the influence of social media, suggesting that if exposure occurs through digital platforms, one logical step is to leave those negative digital environments. While acknowledging the process is not easy, she believes change is possible with the individual’s will and support from their immediate circle.

Professor Umaimah reminded everyone not to demean or bully people with LGBT tendencies, stating that bullying is not a solution and is itself a crime. Her statement aligns with the MUI’s focus on the LGBT issue, which will be a key discussion topic at the VIII Indonesian Ulema Council Congress.

MUI Secretary General Buya Amirsyah Tambunan previously stated that the LGBT phenomenon is a strategic issue requiring serious attention. The MUI is initiating the drafting of an academic paper as a preliminary step for a Draft Law on LGBT prevention, which will be submitted to the House of Representatives (DPR RI) for consideration. The drafting will involve experts from legal, psychological, and health fields to ensure a strong academic foundation.