The Kota Bharu Municipal Council's (MPKB) decision to fine a non-Muslim woman for wearing shorts while in her own shop had infringed on her constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, said Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming.
He pointed out that such freedoms should be respected in a multiracial society.
"This was a non-Muslim trader in her own shop and she was wearing shorts.
“These are fundamental rights and freedoms which are guaranteed in the Federal Constitution," he told reporters in Cyberjaya today.
Nga said he has asked MPKB and the PAS state government to retract the compound.
On June 25, the woman - dressed in an oversized pink t-shirt covering her shorts - was fined under Section 34(2)(b) of MPKB's 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 Daily, Section 34(2)(b) states that business licence owners need to ensure those working on their premises must wear "decent" clothes or, if they are Muslim, cover their aurat (modesty).
The by-law does not define what is considered "decent" clothing.
Nga said the local council should not be over eager to hand out fines.
In this situation, the minister said they should have discussed the matter with the woman, reprimand and educate her while also respecting that she is a non-Muslim. - Mkini
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