The Terengganu Amateur Swimming Association sent 2 Muslim female divers to represent the state in the diving competition at the recent 21st Malaysian Games (Sukma) in Sarawak. However, they did not get the state government’s approval.
Terengganu youth and sports executive councillor Hishamuddin Abdul Karim was shocked to learn about the Muslim representatives, but what was the reason behind it?
The dress code was not as discussed
In an official statement by Hishamuddin posted on his Facebook, the exco highlighted the sports council’s stand – no female Muslims can represent the state in diving if the attire does not meet the state’s dress code for female Muslim athletes.
The Shariah-compliant dress code was set in 2018 and in 2022, the state banned women from taking part in gymnastics events due to outfits that don’t comply with the dress code.
“I was not informed about the Muslim divers. I have requested a detailed report from the Sports Council of Terengganu (MSNT) about the matter, and the explanation will be given after the end of SUKMA 2024,” Hishamuddin said.
“We misunderstood the dress code”
The Terengganu Amateur Swimming Association has since apologised for the matter and said they will take full responsibility. The association’s president, Toh Chin Yaw admitted that he had misunderstood the dress code.
“We thought the dress code set by the national and international swimming bodies would be acceptable. We only realised we made a mistake after this became an issue,” Toh said in a statement shared by Hishammudin in his other post.
Toh also said that the association will scout for talent among non-Muslims as permitted by the state government. He also explained that the association sent the divers to Sukma 2024 on their own initiative.
“We covered the costs with financial support from the association itself, as well as the athlete’s families.”
What do you think of this?
