Twenty people were arrested for allegedly inciting vice and cross-dressing in Kuala Lumpur during a Halloween party, of all things. This may come as a shock to those who see KL as a relatively progressive city, but Coconuts KL’s Aminah Farid explains that religion has long been used to justify persecution towards the LGBTQ+ community. Ominously, things may continue to get worse as elections loom in Malaysia. Tune in!

Other stories include:

One Thai killed in Seoul Halloween stampede: embassy | Richard Branson declines offer to live TV debate on the death penalty, urges Singapore to challenge local activists instead | 1.8 tons of liquid meth disguised as coconut water intercepted by HK Customs in city’s biggest meth bust ever | Travelers to Australia, declare your rendang or face huge fine and deportation | Authorities defend removal of ads – including for ‘babi guling’ – ahead of G20 Summit | Family remembers late patriarch by painting his tomb like Jollibee

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