The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh, recently wished Muslims a blessed Nuzul Al-Quran via a Facebook post, only for social media users to question why she was not wearing a tudung (headscarf) in the post. Some netizens labelled the post “inappropriate” due to her attire.
This follows a separate incident where an image of Yeoh wearing a headscarf circulated online, prompting some critics to claim she was “merely putting on an act.” The Minister is well aware of the online backlash and the various opinions regarding her wardrobe choices.
“Damned if I do, damned if I don’t”
In a Facebook post yesterday (11 March), Yeoh broke her silence regarding the ongoing debate over her decision to wear, or not wear, the headscarf. She expressed that she is bound to face criticism regardless of her choice, but made it clear that the online chatter does not affect her.
“If I put it on, I am told I’m putting on an act. If I don’t, I am told I’m being disrespectful,” she noted.
She maintained that as long as she feels at peace, the opinions of others do not matter, adding that “The Almighty is the bestower of Grace.”
A matter of manners and respect
Yeoh highlighted that during Ramadan, she attends numerous events, particularly Iftar (breaking of fast), at various places of worship, including mosques and suraus.
She clarified that wearing the headscarf in these settings is simply a sign of respect for sacred spaces.
“I felt comfortable wearing tudung. This is what many people don’t understand,” she remarked in her Facebook post with a smile.
This is not the first time Yeoh has donned the tudung. In 2022, she was spotted wearing one at Masjid Al-Imam Al-Ghazali, where she facilitated the contribution of a hearse van worth RM29,000.
Despite the recurring debate, Yeoh remains firm that her attire is about etiquette rather than performance.
What do you think of the Federal Territories Minister’s statement?
Also read: “Race has never defined my work” – Hannah Yeoh Assures Preservation of Malay Villages as FT Minister
