*MCA T’ganu holds the PAS state govt to its word on bikini assurance for non-Muslims*

MCA Terengganu notes the remarks by Terengganu executive councillor for human capital, missionary work and information, Mohamad Nor Hamzah that the Terengganu PAS state government will not restrict non-Muslims from donning bikinis on the state’s islands and beaches. We hope this is an assurance which will hold and not conveniently overlooked or ignored if an enforcement officer were to impinge his personal convictions unto beach-goers.

Nevertheless, we cannot refrain from expressing our disquiet on his caution that the “authorities may, from time to time, approach the tourists for ‘discussions’ on the matter, although he did not explain what this would entail (Malay Mail  Online, 22 June 2018).”

“Approaching tourists” would also mean that the enforcement officers would have observed the holidaymakers for a while before their next action to “approach” and “discuss”. MCA Terengganu does not want this situation to be exploited and abused by enforcement officers who cannot contain their lust to ogle at holidaymakers, but cloak behind self-righteousness to then harass visitors to the sand dunes and waters.

Likewise, we are concerned if visitors whose complexions and appearance render them similar in appearance to Malay Muslims ie indigenous Sabahans and Sarawakians, Eurasians, Malaysians who are of mixed parentage ie Indians and Chinese, they too may be mistaken as Muslims, harassed and summoned for not covering for their aurat.

For the avoidance of doubt and subsequent arguments, it is safer to place signage at the seaside as to what sort of beach wear is permitted Muslims and non-Muslims. Additionally, the signage should indicate restrictions on unacceptable behaviour ie nudity, women going topless as practised by Western women (not all) when sunbathing on beaches in Western countries, copulation, littering, bringing glass containers, no disturbing a turtle that is crawling to or from the sea or laying eggs, no shining lights on the beach at night as this may frighten away nesting females and interfere with the baby turtles' ability to find the sea.

Terengganu has pristine beaches and islands are tourist destinations that can generate revenue for the state and income for local industries. Do not let overzealousness, intolerance or lust-filled enforcement officers destroy their pull-factor.

Dato’ Toh Chin Yaw
MCA Terengganu State Liaison Committee Chairman

// End