The Kota Baru Municipal Council (MPKB) has confirmed that a non-Muslim woman from Kelantan received a compound notice for wearing what was deemed as indecent clothing. The incident occurred during a routine check conducted by the council's enforcement officers at the woman's clothing business. The action taken has sparked outrage among netizens after a relative of the woman shared the compound notice on social media.
Details of the Incident:
The 35-year-old woman, who runs a clothing business, was confronted by MPKB enforcement officers during their visit to her outlet on Jalan Merbau around 11 AM. The officers observed that she was wearing shorts, which according to MPKB President Rosnazli Amin, violated regulations regarding proper attire in public places.
When contacted, Rosnazli stated, "The non-Muslim owner was found to have been wearing shorts at public places, and for that, she was slapped with the compound." He emphasized that the woman had contravened Section 34(2)(b) of the Business and Industrial Trade By-Laws 2019, a regulation that has long been in existence and understood by many locals, including non-Muslims.
Consequences and Social Media Backlash:
Following the issuance of the compound notice, the woman was given a seven-day period to settle the fine or face potential legal action. However, the situation escalated when a relative of the woman shared the notice on social media platforms, triggering anger and discontent among netizens.
Critics argue that such enforcement measures targeting clothing choices infringe upon personal freedom and expression. The incident has fueled a broader discussion about the balance between cultural sensitivities and individual liberties.
MPKB's Stand:
MPKB President Rosnazli defended the council's actions, highlighting the importance of adhering to existing regulations. While the enforcement may appear strict to some, Rosnazli reiterated that the by-laws have been in place for an extended period and are generally understood by residents, irrespective of their religious backgrounds.
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