Exploring Sexual Education Among Malaysian Parents: A Qualitative Study on Approaches Through Diverse Religious Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: Malaysian parents face complex challenges in communicating sexual and reproductive health (SRH) to adolescents. Deeply rooted religious beliefs and cultural norms often shape parental attitudes and behaviours, creating barriers to open dialogue and limiting effective guidance on SRH within the family context. Methods: The objective of this study is to explore the experiences, views, and challenges faced by Malaysian parents in delivering sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education, with a particular emphasis on the influence and role of religion and cultural norms. A total of 31 parents from different ethnic backgrounds (Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous) and various religions (Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism) were interviewed in-depth to explore their views and find solutions that could enhance acceptance. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Atlas.TI software. Results: The study identified two main themes: (1) integrating religious doctrine and cultural practices in SRH education, and (2) how religion and culture shape gender roles and identity. Each main theme encompasses four subthemes. Discussion: The acceptance of SRH education among Malaysia's diverse ethnic and religious communities can be improved by adopting an SRH education framework that is sensitive to the country's religious principles and cultural values. The findings can inform national policymakers to design SRH education policies that are more culturally and religiously sensitive, increasing acceptance and participation among diverse Malaysian communities.