THE PAS-led Terengganu government’s fixation on women’s attire will only reduce the participation and representation of female athletes from the state in national and international competitions, Sisters in Islam (SIS) said today.

The Muslim women’s rights group said such a behaviour by PAS in Terengganu and other PAS-led states would also affect the female athletes’ chances of winning medals and recognition.

It said there would also be a loss of talent and potential among female athletes who are forced to quit or switch to other sports deemed more acceptable by the state government.

This could affect their passion and performance, SIS said in a statement today.

It said such action would also increase discrimination and harassment of female athletes who choose to continue with their sports, which could affect their mental and physical wellbeing.

“(And, bring) damage to Malaysia’s reputation as a diverse and progressive nation that supports and celebrates sports excellence and inclusivity,” it said.

SIS was referring to the Terengganu government’s decision to disallow the state’s female gymnasts from participating in the upcoming Sukan Malaysia (Sukma), citing concerns over their attire.

It said the decision had prompted a profound reflection on the core principles of freedom and choice for Muslim female athletes in Malaysia.

“Terengganu’s ruling carries the perturbing indication of discrimination and signifies a substantial setback in the ongoing struggle for gender equality in sports,” said SIS.

“Repeatedly, female athletes have found themselves under the intense scrutiny of public gaze, with their attire and modesty subjected to relentless questioning.

“This unwarranted scrutiny not only hampers their growth but also confines them to the peripheries, impeding their journey towards realising their full potential.”

It also slammed the state government for suggesting that the female gymnasts to switch to wushu, a Chinese form of martial art.

“These athletes have poured years of their lives into mastering the art of gymnastics, honing their skills and discipline to perfection,” it said.

“Forcing them into an entirely different sport not only belittles their unwavering dedication but also raises profound questions regarding their freedom to choose their preferred discipline.”

SIS also lashed out at the state government for its plan to strengthen and enforce a “shariah-compliant” dress code for Muslim tourists in key attraction spots like Pulau Redang and Pulau Perhentian.

It said this code is expected to be enforced at all entrances into the state, leaving detrimental effects towards Malaysia’s economy. – October 9, 2023.