We just want to advise K-pop fans, says Jawi

The Federal Territory Islamic Affairs Department (Jawi) appears to have taken a softer approach with the tudung-clad Malay girls who were hugged and kissed by K-pop artistes on stage, saying that they only wanted to advise the girls.

Jawi director Paimuzi Yahya (pic) said the religious body would focus on counselling and giving the girls advice and guidance, adding that that was their intention from the start.

"Actually that was our (intention), it is just that as an enforcement body, we have to use the law. We cannot simply call them."

He told The Malaysian Insider that as of now, the girls have not been identified and they have yet to come forward to meet the religious body.

"We have asked them to come and discuss this case with us, to see if they need any assistance from Jawi."

He said it was up to the girls if they wanted to seek advice from Jawi, adding that no time frame has been set for the meeting.

"If they have been advised by other parties, and they think they don't need (advice) from Jawi, terpulanglah (up to them)... we don't have any problem, it is up to them."

When asked about the threat of warrant of arrests being issued against the girls for failing to show up, Paimuzi said Jawi could not apply for the warrant as they do not know the identity of the girls.

It was reported last week that Jawi had given the girls a week to come forward or face arrest.

Paimuzi was quoted by Utusan Malaysia saying that the case would be investigated under Section 29 of the of Shariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997 (Act 599 Indecent Acts in Public Places).

If found guilty, a person can be fined up to RM1,000 and jailed no more than six months.

- TMI