Whither the Malay identity


A FAMOUS entertainer, some years before her demise, requested that newspapers and TV stations not use any photos or visuals without her wearing the tudung (hijab). Those were her jahiliah (ignorant) days, she had said. She was not alone. Many Muslim ladies today dread their earlier photos without the tudung to be posted even among family WhatsApp groups.

Back then, Malay women were proudly manifesting their Malayness. They wore baju kurung, even kebaya. Just look at the golden era of Malay cinema in the 50s and early 60s. No one was wearing the tudung. Perhaps my mother’s generation was a lot less complicated. Yet I am sure they were no less religious then than women of today.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Columnists

On security and peace: Lessons from the Shangri-La Dialogue
Where have all the dribblers gone?
Putting higher value on George Town’s liveability
Pipeline blaze sparks momentum for global renewable energy goals
Tengku Maimun’s enduring legacy�
Is Mamdani a turning point for US politics?
When things get too hot down below
The Sabah scandal: is it about minerals or power?�
Asean, the preferred choice
The Indian quandary

Others Also Read