PUTRAJAYA, Feb 20 — 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 om Sunday (February 16).
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said he was informed about the matter during a meeting with Jawi director-general Hanifuddin Roslan this 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 said during a press conference after receiving a courtesy visit from Masjid Al-Aqsa's Grand Imam Sheikh Ekrima Said Sabri at his office today.
Na'im added that the next step will involve a closed-door discussion between the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia's 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.
On Tuesday (February 18), Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government would take firm action against any television station found violating established guidelines.
— Bernama
