Jakarta (HRNW) — Indonesian Islamic scholars have issued a religious ruling declaring the wearing of clothing associated with the opposite gender “haram” (forbidden) under Islamic teachings.
The development comes amid growing debate in Indonesia over LGBT-related activities and their promotion, with religious groups calling for the protection of religious and social values and measures to prevent activities they consider contrary to Islamic teachings.
Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) has previously maintained a strong position against same-sex relationships and LGBT-related activities, and religious leaders have called for greater restrictions on their promotion.
According to the religious position, wearing clothing traditionally associated with the opposite sex is viewed as crossing established gender boundaries and is therefore prohibited under their interpretation of Islamic law.
Religious Ruling vs. State Law
The reported fatwa represents a religious opinion and should not automatically be interpreted as a nationwide criminal or legal ban. Religious rulings and state legislation are separate matters, and enforcement depends on applicable Indonesian laws and regulations.
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Disclaimer: This report is based on the reported statements and positions of Indonesian religious authorities. A religious fatwa represents a religious ruling and does not necessarily constitute state law. HRNW does not independently endorse the position described and will update the report if further official clarification becomes available.
