This article explores how Malaysian Muslims perceive gender nonconforming expression and performance of non-normative identities among influential figures on Instagram. These individuals face challenges as they assert a subverted Malay Muslim identity through their gender expression in Instagram videos. The strong association between religion and gender nonconformity creates a complex conflict within the framework of deep-rooted Malay identity and adherence to Islamic principles. To navigate this conflict, nonconforming influencers on Instagram employ humorous identity to construct powerful cultural lenses that embrace gender nonconformity alongside religious values, providing a possible safeguard from punishment. The article contributes to the study of Malaysian Muslim cultural identity by highlighting the significance of viewers' perspectives on non-normative performance and expression, suggesting the acceptance of nonconforming discourses within the broader context of Malayness and Muslimness. This cyborgian nature of humorous gendered performance and expression presents a promising future where diverse identities can coexist in a shared space, playing a powerful role in the formation of identity among non-normative Malaysian Muslims.

Authors:
Nur Atirah Kamaruzaman, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Nur Atirah Kamaruzaman is a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Putra Malaysia. Her research focuses on media and cultural studies, with emphasis on gender identity, intersectionality, and participatory culture in digital and social media spaces.

Connect on Linkedin
https://my.linkedin.com/in/atrhkjsf

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nur-Atirah-Kamaruzaman

Additional website of interest
https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=58678195600

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