Transition experiences of the Malay Muslim Trans women in Northern Region of Malaysia: A qualitative study

Transgender topics are controversial in Malaysia and trans people are subject to stigma and persecution. In this study context, the transition is defined as a phase where a person changes from one gender to the gender that an individual chooses. Little is known about the transgender people's transition experiences in Malaysia. Studies have shown that transition helps boost transgender individuals in most aspects. This study seeks to understand the transition experiences of the Malay Muslim Trans women in Northern Malaysia. A qualitative study using a snowball sampling method was used to interview in-depth 13 trans women. The interviews focused on their gender transition experiences, support systems, family and friends' reactions, and coping strategies. The study found four primary themes: transition, reaction, support system, and coping method. Most of the respondents agreed that they felt conflicted about their gender at a young age and started transitioning when they were adolescents. Overall acceptance and reaction of family and society to their transition was low and not good. Most mentioned the importance of a good support system and that they received essential support from their peers in the transgender community. However, they acknowledged that family support was also crucial for them. All of the respondents specified that they did not regret their gender transition. Although this study gained insight, more is needed to understand in depth a very sensitive subject such as this.