Malaysia has blocked access to the dating apps Grindr and Blued, with authorities signalling they are considering further action against other LGBTQ+ platforms.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced the move on 25 February, confirming the government is exploring additional measures to curb similar apps from operating within the country.
“Control over applications on platforms such as Google Play and Apple Store is subject to regulations and policies set by the said platform providers, since both applications are owned by foreign companies operating outside of Malaysia,” Fadzil said.
Regulatory Action Under Review
Fadzil confirmed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had not received formal requests to remove the mobile versions of the apps from digital storefronts.
However, the regulator is reviewing legal avenues that would restrict apps deemed to violate Malaysian law. According to officials, this includes platforms that “spread lewd or immoral content, exploitation, abuse, scams, exploiting children or threats towards public safety”. LGBTQ+ dating applications fall within that classification under current interpretations.
The government has not yet detailed what further enforcement mechanisms may be introduced or how broadly they may apply.
Legal Context
Same-sex sexual activity remains criminalised in Malaysia under both federal law and state-level Sharia law.
Under existing legislation, anal sex — whether between two men or between a man and a woman — can carry penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, as well as caning, fines and possible deportation for non-citizens.
The blocking of Grindr and Blued marks the latest step in Malaysia’s ongoing restrictions affecting LGBTQ+ communities and digital platforms.
