On 27th November 2024, during the Committee Stage Debate on the 2025 Supply Bill for the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) in the Dewan Rakyat, a PAS politician called for an end to the practice of showcasing women in revealing clothing at MotoGP events at the Sepang International Circuit. He argued that this practice "contradicts the teachings of Islam."
Permatang Pauh MP Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan criticized the tradition of featuring women models in revealing attire during such events. He stated, “What I want to address is the issue of the tradition of 'parading' women models in revealing clothing throughout the event. This contradicts the teachings of Islam and the Fifth Principle of the Rukun Negara, which emphasises courtesy and morality. It is highly inappropriate for a motorsport event, which is traditionally associated with men, to feature such a practice.” He also added that “many visitors have expressed their complaints about this issue.”
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and we live in a democratic country where diverse views are valued. However, I must respectfully disagree with Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan's stance on this matter. While I understand his concerns, it’s important to recognize that events like MotoGP are not just about motorsport but also about entertainment and attracting global audiences. Here are a few reasons why I disagree with him:
1. It is an INTERNATIONAL event
First, it’s important to recognize that MotoGP events at the Sepang International Circuit are INTERNATIONAL events, attracting riders and fans from around the world. These events are not exclusive to Muslims. The presence of women models in revealing attire is part of the broader spectacle that many visitors enjoy—it’s a form of entertainment that helps draw global audiences. This does not inherently contradict the values of courtesy and morality. Ultimately, everyone is entitled to their own perspective, but it’s crucial to respect the choices of those attending and participating in these events.
Furthermore, one has to question PAS’s claim of always respecting the rights of non-Muslims. If that’s truly the case, why would there be such strong objections to something that appeals to a diverse, international crowd? Is it, as DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng suggested in August, just another ‘lie’? The contradiction raises an important point about how much respect is actually given to the rights of others.
2. PAS uses ‘sexy’ influencers in GE15
If PAS is genuinely concerned about the presence of 'sexy' models in revealing attire at MotoGP events, then why did they promote the use of 'sexy' influencers and supporters wearing provocative outfits during the lead-up to GE15? To refresh your memory, numerous TikTok videos from that time featured women in provocative attire promoting Perikatan Nasional and encouraging their followers to vote for the coalition in GE15. This is highly ironic, given that one of PAS’s core principles is its strong criticism of women who do not cover their aurat or adhere to modest dressing standards.
What’s even more puzzling is that these women, who were actively promoting PAS in these videos, did not cover up their aurat at all. So where was the outcry then? Where was the criticism of their attire? It seems that PAS adheres to a double standard, selectively applying its values when it suits them, while turning a blind eye when it benefits their political agenda. This contradiction raises questions about the true motivations behind their stance on modesty and morality.
At the end of the day, PAS’s stance on morality and modesty reeks of blatant hypocrisy. How can they condemn the presence of women in revealing clothing at an international event like the MotoGP, yet turn a blind eye when it comes to their own political agenda? The irony is staggering—while they criticize the use of ‘sexy’ models at the Sepang International Circuit, they shamelessly embraced ‘sexy’ influencers in provocative outfits to promote their party during GE15. This glaring double standard not only undermines their credibility but also exposes the true motives behind their so-called moral stance. PAS’s selective outrage, fueled by political convenience, reveals a deep hypocrisy that cannot be ignored. If they truly champion the principles they claim to uphold, they must start by applying them consistently, instead of only when it suits their narrative. The hypocrisy is loud, and it demands to be called out.
Aaron Colt is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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