Terengganu says no to women’s gymnastics, prepares shariah code for athletes

The PAS-led Terengganu government says the state will not take part in rhythmic gymnastics as it involves indecent body movements. (Bernama pic)

KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu state government is drafting a shariah-compliant code of conduct for athletes, and has invited fashion designers to contribute suggestions and ideas on such shariah-compliant attire.

Youth Development, Sports and Non-Government Development Committee chairman Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah also said the state decided to withdraw from several sport events because they did not conform to Islamic rules.

Wan Sukairi said the new guidelines would not only cover sports wear, but also how athletes socialise and conduct themselves during events.

The state government was now taking in feedback on the matter from sports associations, academics, and the state mufti.

But he said the state would not rush into implementing the move just yet.

“When we have finally got the right shariah-compliant attire, we will enforce the guidelines,” he told reporters after attending a shariah sports workshop here today.

For now, athletes in the state are allowed to wear standard sportswear, he added.

Wan Sukairi further said the state government was forced to withdraw from rhythmic gymnastics and women’s gymnastics as they required athletes to expose their bodies.

“There is no compromise for these sports (rhythmic gymnastics and women’s gymnastics) as they display indecent movements, and unless the audience comprise only women, then maybe we will allow them.

“Even then, it would still be against the respective sports’ governing body regulations,” he said. - FMT