PUTRAJAYA: The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) will summon individuals who cross-dressed as women during the 39th Anugerah Juara Lagu (AJL) awards show, which was broadcast live on a local television station last Sunday.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said he was informed about the matter during a meeting with Jawi director-general Hanifuddin Roslan on Thursday (Feb 20) morning.
"All those involved have been identified and contacted by Jawi's enforcement division.
"Their actions clearly violate Section 28 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act, which pertains to the offence of men dressing as women," he told a press conference after receiving a courtesy visit from Al-Aqsa Mosque Grand Imam Sheikh Dr Ekrima Said Sabri at his office here on Thursday.
Mohd Na'im added that the next step would involve a closed-door discussion between the Islamic Development Malaysia Department (Jakim) Dakwah Division and the individuals concerned to provide advice and clarification on the offence committed.
"We hope this will serve as a lesson and prevent a recurrence. We want our enforcement and advisory approach to send a clear message that we are not remaining silent," he said.
Last Tuesday, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government would take firm action against any television station found violating established guidelines. – Bernama
