Ryan Ong, Communications Coordinator

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Ryan is deeply passionate about sparking conversations on governance, inclusion and social justice, with a keen focus on marginalized communities and the Global South. At People Powered, Ryan supports communication efforts to make the community’s work more visible.

Before People Powered, Ryan was the communications officer at ILGA Asia, the Asian region for the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a membership-based organization that advances the rights of LGBTIQ+ communities. Ryan’s work included running several campaigns and initiatives, including a petition to free two women activists facing the death penalty in Iran, garnering 150,000 signatures and leading to the release of the women in 2023.

Ryan has also facilitated community consultations to understand and address homelessness among LGBTIQ+ youth as part of PLUHO (People Like Us Hang Out!). Their work led to the establishment of the first queer-inclusive shelter in the country. In addition, Ryan served as the former associate editor of Queer Lapis, a platform dedicated to elevating community voices on culture, rights and the laws. In that capacity, Ryan contributed to public education about a landmark legal case involving 11 men charged with consensual sex, ultimately leading to the repeal of Sharia law at the federal level and the liberation of the men involved.

Ryan earned a bachelor of arts degree in global and gender studies from Monash University Malaysia. In their free time, Ryan enjoys meeting new people and exploring different cities.