LGBT punk band Shh...Diam! boldly turns up their music against rising conservatism and political upheaval in Malaysia.

Faris is the transman lead singer of an openly queer punk band in Malaysia, who along with his bandmates Yon and Yoyo uses music to fight for LGBTQ+ rights in a country where human rights and freedom of expression are severely curtailed. 

Director Yihwen Chen follows the trio over several years, documenting their gigs, travels, and wide-ranging discussions. Despite increasing discrimination, the band are determined to continue using their nonconformist performances as a platform to advocate for freedom and equality, refusing to let social pressures silence their voice. 

Queer as Punk is an enthusiastic testament to the band’s determination to be themselves, and love themselves, and a reminder of the liberating power of queer music.

Screen as part of QUEER EAST.