Homosexuality remains a taboo topic with the public, which is why the gay community gathers away from the public eye in saunas and underground parties.
President Joko Widodo last year gave qualified support for the gay community, telling the BBC 'there should be no discrimination against anyone', but noted homosexuality is not popular in his country.
'These attacks are an unfortunate symptom of the growing radicalisation in Indonesia that has targeted women, religious and ethnic minorities, and which could negatively impact diplomatic relations and foreign investments in your country, if left unchecked,' said the letter signed by 35 congress members.Īn Indonesian presidential spokesman declined to comment on the letter.