KUALA LUMPUR: The precise definition of what counts as “indecent clothing” is needed, says Wong You Fong (pic).
The Wanita MCA national chairperson said in a statement on Tuesday (June 27) that she sympathised with the woman who on was issued a compound notice on Sunday (June 25) by the Kota Baru Municipal Council (MPKB) in Kelantan for allegedly dressing “indecently” at her boutique outlet along Jalan Merbau.
"We (Wanita MCA) uphold the rule of law of our nation.
"Nevertheless, Wanita MCA asserts that there is a need for the PAS-led Kelantan state government to ensure that its enforcement officers carry out their duties in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Constitution.
"This will help prevent any cases of discrimination against any ethnic group within this country," she said.
Wong said under Section 34(2)(b) of Kelantan's Business and Industrial Trade By-Laws 2019, non-Muslim business licensees have to ensure that they and their non-Muslim employees wear decent clothes and if the employees are Muslim, they shall wear an attire covering their aurat.
"Perhaps many still do not fully comprehend the definition of 'decent clothes' as stated in the by-law.
"It is therefore only apt that the related authority provides precise details on the matter, that is, the definition of “decent clothing and indecent clothing.”
"It is important that such definitions do not infringe the rights of any person regardless of whether he or she is Muslim or non-Muslim.
"This is essential to remove any perception that enforcement officers abuse their power whilst on assignment," she said.
Wong said the Kelantan PAS state government must protect the rights of Malaysians regardless of religion or race.
"The ball is in their (Pas) court to prove that they are able to safeguard the rights and welfare of the non-Muslims.
"It was once promised by PAS vice president Datuk Mohd Amar Abdullah in a statement on January 30, 2019, that fairness is not only for Muslims but PAS also protects the non-Muslims.
"This year marks the 66th year since Merdeka, and our beloved nation has continued onwards as one big, peaceful, harmonious family made up of many different races.
"If there is a need to make certain changes, then it should be done for the mutual good of all Malaysians, and not to deny others of their constitutional rights," she said.
