Kota Baru council to cancel fine for non-Muslim woman who wore shorts, says Nga

IPOH: The Kota Baru Municipal Council has agreed to cancel the fine of a non-Muslim woman who was penalised for wearing shorts in her store, says Nga Kor Ming.

He said the matter was decided after a discussion with the Local Government Department director-general.

Speaking about the recent case, the Local Government Development Minister said that the woman should not have paid the fine.

"The woman should not have paid the fine, as she may have been misled to do so. She wore shorts in her own shop, which sells shorts," said Nga at a press conference in Fair Park here on Saturday (July 1).

"If she cannot wear shorts, it means all her stock would have to be discarded, which does not make sense. (But) the issue is now settled," he added.

Last Sunday (June 25), the Kota Baru Municipal Council fined a non-Muslim businesswoman for wearing shorts in public, which is an offence under Section 34(2)(b) of the council's Business and Industrial Trade By-Laws 2019.

The by-law states that non-Muslims are to be dressed decently, while covering their aurat.

Nga said local governments are reminded that they need to understand the essence of the Federal Constitution when carrying out their duties.

"Malaysia is a multi-racial country and we need to respect each other. We respect the dress code but do not be too enthusiastic when enforcing the law," he said.

"The matter should not have happened and we hope it will not recur," he added.