The Kota Bharu City Council (MPKB) has defended its decision to fine a non-Muslim female business owner over her clothing.
The woman had complained on Facebook that she was fined for wearing shorts at her own premises on June 25, prompting netizens to complain that the authorities were imposing religious law on non-Muslims.
According to Sin Chew Daily, MPKB mayor Rosnazli Amin said the clothes that the woman wore in the photograph where she was seen posing with the fine were not what she wore when she was visited by enforcement personnel.
Rosnazli then shared a photograph of the enforcement personnel visiting the woman's clothing boutique, where the latter was clad in an oversized pink t-shirt that covered her shorts.
"The photo that we saw on Facebook depicted her wearing a t-shirt and a pair of shorts. It was different to what she was wearing (when the fine was handed to her)," said Rosnazli.
According to the notice received by her woman, the authorities cited 34(2)(b) Business and Industrial Trade By-Laws 2019.
The alleged offence read: "Pemilik bukan Islam berpakaian tidak sopan. Baju t-shirt dan berseluar pendek paras punggung" (Non-Muslim business owner dressed inappropriately in t-shirt and short shorts).
According to Sin Chew, 34(2)(b) states that business licence owners must ensure those working on their premises must wear "decent" clothes or, if they are Muslim, cover their aurat.
The quantum of the fine issued to the woman cannot be determined.
Sin Chew noted that the law did not define what was considered "decent".
Yesterday, the Kelantan Chinese Chambers criticised the city council for issuing the fine instead of providing a warning first.
He also urged female business owners to dress modestly.
"Kelantan is under an Islamic government. Although (non-Muslims) have freedoms, there should be mutual respect for different cultures and traditions," he said. - Mkini
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