Minister calls for withdrawal of summons for non-Muslim's dressing case

SHAH ALAM - Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming has called for the Kota Baru Municipal Council (MPKB) to withdraw the summons issued to a non-Muslim individual for allegedly dressing inappropriately.

Nga stressed that the woman, who is a clothing store owner, has the right to dress as she pleases.

"I have urged MPKB not to abuse their authority and to abide by the Federal Constitution, as Malaysia is a country with diverse races and religions. This woman is a non-Muslim shopkeeper in her own establishment, and it is her right to choose her attire," Nga stated, as reported by the New Straits Times.

Nga highlighted that according to the Federal Constitution, Malaysian citizens have the freedom to wear attire of their choice.

He also expressed concern that such incidents create unrest among the non-Muslim community.

"I have requested MPKB and the state government, Pas, to consider retracting the citation if possible, as this issue has stirred controversy among the non-Muslim community," he reportedly said.

Yesterday, MPKB issued a compound to a non-Muslim woman for being "dressed inappropriately."

MPKB president Rosnazli Amin stated that the woman was fined under section 34(2)(b) of the Commercial Trade and Industrial Local Government Regulations 2019, which requires business license holders to ensure that individuals working on their premises dress modestly or, if they are Muslim, cover their aurat (intimate parts).

Rosnazli also reportedly clarified that the photo circulating on Facebook, showing the woman posing with the fine, was misleading as she was wearing different clothing when the compound was issued.