Mak nyahs and sex reassignment surgery: a qualitative study from Pahang, Malaysia

Draman, Samsul and Suofeiya, Maliya and Nasarruddin, Muhammad Syaffiq and Zainal, Nur Hamizah and Azeman, Abdul Hakim and Mohd Rus, Razman (2019) Mak nyahs and sex reassignment surgery: a qualitative study from Pahang, Malaysia. The International Medical Journal Malaysia, 18 (1). pp. 21-34. E-ISSN 1823-4631

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Abstract

Introduction: Mak nyahs are locally known male-to-female transgenders in Malaysia. In Western countries, medicalization of transgenderism allows strictly selected patients to undergo sex reassignment surgery. However, a standardized treatment system is not yet available in Malaysia. A number of mak nyahs underwent sex reassignment surgery at their own will. This study aimed to explore mak nyahs’ knowledge and perception on sex reassignment surgery. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research was carried out from 13th July 2016 till 31st August 2016 among 8 adult mak nyahs in Kuantan, Pahang. Snowball sampling was used. Participants who gave verbal consent were interviewed individually and in focus groups. Data obtained was transcribed and used as the primary data source. Results: All informants were Malays and Muslims. They generally had some knowledge about the standard procedures and risks in sex reassignment surgery. All informants expressed their desire to have the surgery, but chose not to. Reasons discouraging them from having the surgery were: i) religion, ii) forbiddance from family, iii) fear of regret, iv) death from surgery, and v) the lack of necessity. Factors driving them to have the surgery: i) more income from sex work, ii) pressure from sex clients, iii) securing a stable relationship, iv) self-satisfaction, and v) hope for a better future. Conclusion: Religion seemed to be the main reason refraining them from undertaking the surgery. Counselling mak nyahs should include the advantages and disadvantages of sexual reassignment surgery. Islamic religious preaching is very important to help reduce high risk behaviours, as well as teaching mak nyahs to cope with challenges in adult life. Further research is necessary to show association between religious knowledge and successful rehabilitation of the mak nyahs’ community.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Additional Information:	5011/71503
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Mak nyah, male-to-female transgender, sex reassignment surgery.
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HS Societies secret benevolent etc R Medicine > RC Internal medicine R Medicine > RD Surgery R Medicine > RZ Other systems of medicine
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Medicine Kulliyyah of Medicine > Department of Community Medicine (Effective: 1st January 2011) Kulliyyah of Medicine > Department of Family Medicine (Effective: 1st January 2011)
Depositing User:	SR NUR FARHANA LATFI
Date Deposited:	08 Apr 2019 15:07
Last Modified:	01 Aug 2019 09:50
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/71503

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