Female genital cutting in Malaysia: a mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Sociology of Religion
• Public Health
• Medical Anthropology

Background:

• Female genital cutting (FGC) is a practice with deep-rooted cultural and religious beliefs in some communities.
• Understanding the motivations behind FGC and its evolving trends is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reasons for FGC practice among the Muslim community.
• To explore the perspectives of traditional practitioners and religious scholars on FGC.
• To examine the trend of medicalization in FGC practices.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method approach combining quantitative (questionnaires, n=605) and qualitative (in-depth interviews, focus group discussions) research.
• Snowball sampling was employed due to the sensitive nature of the topic.
• Data collection occurred in rural areas of two states in Northern Peninsular Malaysia.

Main Results:

• A vast majority (99.3%) of participants had undergone FGC, believed it compulsory (87.6%), and desired its continuation (99.3%).
• A significant trend towards medicalization was observed, with younger generations preferring doctors over traditional midwives for FGC.
• While the community largely views FGC as compulsory, traditional practitioners and Muftis (religious scholars) stated it is not a religious obligation.

Conclusions:

• Community perceptions of FGC as a religious mandate contrast sharply with the views of religious authorities.
• The medicalization trend indicates a shift in how FGC is performed, potentially influenced by perceived legitimacy and safety.
• Further research and dialogue are needed to address the discrepancies between community beliefs and religious interpretations regarding FGC.