Same-Sex Marriage a Sensitive Issue in Indonesia:Think Tank

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - The issue of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) is highly sensitive in Indonesia, Executive Director of Maarif Institute Fajar Riza Ul Haq stated here on Friday.

"LGBT is one of the most sensitive issues in the Indonesian community although having a different sexual orientation is not a new issue in the country," he remarked when asked to comment on it.

He noted that the issue becomes all the more sensitive when it is linked to the efforts to legalize same-sex marriages.

Constitutionally, he affirmed that every citizen in the country has equal social and political rights, including the right to choose his/her sexual orientation.

However, he pointed out that it poses a problem when it comes to marriage.

As a reflection, he referred to the recent ruling of the Constitutional Court on marriage.

"The state confirms that religion is the one that determines whether or not a marriage is legitimate, as marriage is considered sacred," he emphasized.

He hoped that the state would not discriminate against people with different sexual orientations, adding that their existence must be protected, and their sexual orientation should also be respected.

With regard to the legalization of same-sex marriages in the United States, he remarked that it was the decision of that country, and the other countries have to respect it.

He noted that Indonesia has a different legal and justice philosophy, which differs from that of the United States.

The LGBT groups in the United States have since long fought for their rights constitutionally.

"Certainly, reactions are expected from the LGBTs in Indonesia, taking advantage of the momentum of the legalization of same-sex marriages in the United States," he added. (WDY)