Give And Take Ministry Says On Dress Code Guidelines For Female Athletes

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Deputy youth and sports minister Adam Ali said dress code guidelines must be communicated in advance.
KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy youth and sports minister Adam Adli today highlighted the importance of inclusivity and flexibility in dress code guidelines for female athletes, saying the government encourages discussions in reaching a consensus on the matter.
Responding to Fawwaz Jan (PN-Permatang Pauh) who asked if the government planned to introduce specific guidelines for Muslim female athletes, Adam said that organisers at the national, state, and grassroots levels are allowed their own approach, tailored to their events.
“For example, in some states like Terengganu, there have been events involving women, and we (the ministry) have no objections to their dress code requirements.
“This becomes a compromise among stakeholders,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.
However, Adam added that dress code guidelines must not hinder the performance of athletes and should be agreed on after consultation with all relevant parties.
“We (the ministry) always seek the best solution and do not hold negative views of such suggestions (for dress code requirements),” he said.
“If a state imposes conditions, we allow it, provided that it is discussed and communicated in advance.”
The issue of attire for female athletes has often sparked debate online, with some criticising Muslim divers and gymnasts for not wearing shariah-compliant clothing.
In 2018, Terengganu made it a requirement for state athletes to wear shariah-compliant clothing, both at home and while participating in outstation events.
Four years later, it banned women from participating in gymnastic events because of non-shariah compliant outfits, forcing several Muslim female gymnasts from the state to retire from the sport.
Youth and sports minister Hannah Yeoh previously said that female athletes are free to choose their attire during training but must adhere to specific regulations during competitions.
Adam also said there were no plans to build new stadiums or sports facilities for the 2027 SEA Games.
However, he said existing facilities, including in Sarawak, would be upgraded after further discussions and coordination.
“The ministry will meet with the state government after the organising committee for the 2027 SEA Games is set up,” he said, responding to Roy Angau Gingkoi (GPS-Lubok Antu), who asked about plans to improve stadiums and facilities and develop an athletes’ village in Sarawak for the event. - FMT

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