The concept of "gender expression" refers to how an individual presents themselves in terms of behavior, appearance, and personality, which may or may not correspond to traditional gender roles. In recent years, there has been growing awareness and acceptance of individuals who identify outside of traditional binary male/female categories, such as transgender people, nonbinary people, and intersex people.
The experience of Malaysian pondan, who are individuals assigned female at birth but adopt masculine traits and behaviors, is unique and often misunderstood.
For Malaysian pondan, gender expression is not just a matter of personal preference or rebellion against societal norms, but rather an act of religious authenticity. The Malay language has three genders - "perempuan", "laki-laki", and "pondan" - which are considered distinct from biological sex. Pondans occupy a special place within Islamic teachings as they embody both femininity and masculinity simultaneously, representing a balance between Yin and Yang energies. As such, they are revered for their ability to bridge the gap between opposing forces and create harmony in society.
Pondans also have a long history in Malaysia, dating back to the days when the country was ruled by powerful sultans. They were highly respected and held important positions within court, serving as advisors and soldiers. Today, pondans continue to play a vital role in Malaysian culture, particularly in the arts and entertainment industries. They are celebrated for their graceful movements and captivating performances, which are believed to reflect the natural beauty of the universe.
Despite their importance, pondans face discrimination and prejudice due to their gender expression. Many Malaysians view them as deviant or immoral, associating their behavior with Western influences or sexual deviance.
Pondans resist this labeling and assert that their identity is deeply rooted in their religious beliefs. For them, gender expression is a sacred duty that must be fulfilled in order to maintain social harmony and spiritual balance.
Malaysian pondan experience their gender expression as an act of religious authenticity rather than rebellion. By embracing both feminine and masculine traits, they represent the interconnectedness of all things and serve as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of creation. While their experiences may differ from those of other transgender and nonbinary individuals, they remain a valuable part of Malaysian culture and deserve recognition and acceptance.