This paper will introduce a representative research carried out in 2000 on 507 mak nyah respondents on their characteristics. It will show that mak nyahs share basic characteristics with other transsexual identities in the region and throughout the world. This phenomenon cannot be explained socially as perceived by the general public. Most researchers accept that it could be due to both biological and social factors. Finally, this paper will discuss what should and could we do with this marginalized community.   Publication/Conference: 4th International Malaysian Studies Conference; 3-5 August 2004, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi.   Author: TEH, Yik Koon.  [Download]