MUI Proposes Replacing LGBT Terminology with Sodomy and Molestation

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has proposed that the use of the terms Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) be replaced with terms deemed to more accurately reflect the substance of the acts, namely Lesbian, Gay, Sodomy, and Molestation (LGSP). The MUI believes that the term LGBT has functioned as a euphemism that obscures moral deviations within society.

The Chairman of MUI for Fatwa, Prof KH Asrorun Niam Sholeh, stated that the change in terminology is intended to ensure the public understands that the actions in question are prohibited according to religious teachings and carry legal consequences. “LGSP belongs to one group; criminal acts,” Prof Niam stated when confirmed on Friday (31/07/2026).

This proposal was presented by Prof Niam during the 10th IACFS, held from 26–28 July 2026, under the theme “The Role of Fatwa in Achieving Global Peace and Ummah Harmony”. The forum was attended by 63 presenters from Indonesia and various other countries, including Palestine, Yemen, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Thailand.

According to him, there are deviations and breaches of normative values within society that are being permitted through the use of euphemistic terms. Therefore, the MUI is intentionally breaking away from the term LGBT and returning to the term LGSP so that the public understands these are criminal acts and prohibited behaviours. The Professor of Fiqh at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta explained that the use of more assertive terminology is necessary to prevent the blurring of meanings regarding behaviours that, according to the MUI, contradict religious and moral norms.