Malay-Muslim women’s perceptions of sunat perempuan in the Malaysian context

Abstract

Female circumcision (genital cutting) in Malaysia is largely understudied at present. This study unpacks the perceptions of Malay-Muslim women with regards to sunat perempuan (female circumcision) in Malaysia. Through stakeholder engagement discussions organised by a civil society organisation, 17 Malay-Muslim women shared their views in relation to the practice with a particular focus on: (1) their awareness and personal experience of it; (2) their opinions and knowledge about the practice; (3) beliefs related to the practice; and (4) the roles of relevant stakeholders in advocacy work related to the practice. The data were analysed thematically and interpreted based on the grammar of legitimation and social norms theory. The findings reveal several themes, involving the perceived benefits of the practice; tradition and conformity to social norms; conflicting emotions related to religion; and implicit pressure and fear of negative sanctions in relation to the practice. The findings shed light on the concerns faced by Malay-Muslim women in their decision-making process in relation to the practice of female circumcision in Malaysia.

Keywords:

• Female circumcision
• female genital cutting
• Malaysia
• Muslim women

Acknowledgements

We thank Sisters in Islam who helped to organise the stakeholder engagement sessions, and recruit participants for the study. We also thank the journal reviewers and editor-in-chief who provided us with insightful feedback and suggestions.

Disclosure statement

The research presented in this paper was part of a larger study partially funded by Sisters in Islam. However, the funder exerted no influence over the design, analysis or interpretation of the research findings. The authors therefore declare that they have no conflicts of interest related to this work.

Notes

1 An ustazah typically teaches at a local mosque or surau (a small prayer house). Compared to religious authorities such as muftis who are experts in Islamic jurisprudence, they are more likely to meet members of the local Muslim community.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a research grant from Sisters in Islam (PV025-2020).