Nothing in the Samoan culture indicates that a fa'afafine can have a malu says the Fa'afafine Fa'afatama Association, making its stand clear on the argument.

A malu is defined as a female-specific tattoo in the Samoan culture by academics. The malu covers the legs from just below the knee to the upper thighs just below the buttocks and is typically finer and more delicate in design compared to the Pe'a, the equivalent tattoo for males.  

Association president Alex Su'a said the malu was designed for the tama'ita'i Samoa (Samoan women).

"I don't understand why our people always say those things knowing that a malu is not for a fa'afafine. We were born as males, but in our culture, it is inappropriate to see a fa'afafine with a malu.

"Everyone has different opinions on social media, and I am positive that it is not for us.

"Please don't make any changes for any of our Samoan people who live abroad, as I am aware that it is our people who are responsible for this issue and for causing others to think inappropriately, which could destroy the sacredness of our culture."

According to Su'a, the elderly realise how culture should be respected and valued.

"It is heartbreaking to watch our people have negative opinions about it. We are the ones who handle everything in our family since they are aware of our lovely and unique creative ideas," he said.

Lisha Dion, another member of the association said even if someone has had a sex change from a male to female, it was still wrong for them to have a malu.

"Even if you go and fully operate yourself and have a malu, you can never change the fact that you are a fa'afafine because we were born as boys and then change ourselves and our feelings as girls," said Dion.

"They indeed wear dresses, makeup, and other girly things, but that doesn't change your gender. In my opinion, that's enough to justify getting a malu if you know you're not a real girl. However, if they start to touch on traditional tattoos and culture, that's more."

Dion added it was understandable the misconception overseas Samoans can have because they were not that close to the culture.

"They are unaware of the importance of our culture and our measina but for those of us in Samoa who are familiar with our tradition, that should never be done," said Dion.

"Since malu is primarily for females and not for us, I think that all of the older members of our club are aware of this and know better than to bother having it.

"I notice that the majority of the speakers on social media are Samoans who live abroad, but why should we care about their opinions? 

Dion said if a fa'afafine wanted a tattoo, they were free to go ahead and get any design on their torso or legs, but never a malu.