Wanita MCA: “Precise definition of ‘indecent clothing’ needed in MPKB compound case”

Focus Malaysia:

Wanita MCA: “Precise definition of ‘indecent clothing’ needed in MPKB compound case”


WANITA MCA national chairperson Wong You Fong has expressed sympathy for the woman who 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.


However, she said while Wanita MCA upholds the country’s rule of law, 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 added.


According to Wong, 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,” she remarked in a statement.

“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’.”

Wong further pointed out that 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 also asserted that the Kelantan PAS state government must protect the rights of Malaysians regardless of religion or race.

“The ball is in PAS’ court to prove that they are able to safeguard the rights and welfare of the non-Muslims which 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,” she stated.

“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. – June 27, 2023