“Learn From Other Muslim Countries Such As Saudi Arabia” – Tiong Tells PAS Leaders To Be More Tolerant Or Risk Losing Out On Tourism

In a statement on his Facebook yesterday, Tiong emphasized that if “moral policing” incidents in Kelantan persist, it will raise significant concerns and negatively impact both local residents and tourists.

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Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called upon PAS leaders to take inspiration from Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, which he commended for developing its tourism industry all while respecting the rights of individuals from other religious backgrounds.

In a statement on his Facebook yesterday, Tiong emphasized that if incidents similar to the recent case involving a non-Muslim woman from Kelantan persist, it will raise significant concerns and negatively impact both local residents and tourists, ultimately affecting the state’s tourism sector.

He also took this time to remind everyone, regardless of party, religion or race, that Malaysia is a multicultural and united country as well.

It is a different scenario if the woman was undressed, but she was on her own business premises at the time, not in public areas such as government buildings that enforce a dress code on the public.
Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing

Furthermore, referring to Articles 3(1) and 8 of the Federal Constitution, Tiong highlighted that non-Muslims are entitled to practice their respective religions freely and are protected against discrimination based on their race or religion.

This indicates that Malaysia is a peaceful, multi-religious, and multi-ethnic country. As a non-Muslim, I have never denied or questioned any religion or race in this country. As Malaysians who love this country, we must demonstrate mutual respect and celebrate our diversity, while upholding the Federal Constitution.
Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing

This comes after a 35-year-old non-Muslim woman was fined by the Kota Bharu Municipal Council (MPKB) for wearing “inappropriate” clothing” at her store in Kelantan.

Its president Rosnazli Amin cited Section 23(2)(b) of the Business and Industrial Trade By-Laws 2019, which stipulates that non-Muslim business owners and their non-Muslim employees must wear “decent clothes,” or if they are Muslim, cover their aurat (modesty).

On the other hand, Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said non-muslims should dress modestly to protect their dignity as well as be respected by all religions and civilised nations.

They should not be so liberal that there is no shame like ‘senseless animals’ and dishonour, which are sweeping Western countries now.
Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang

These remarks were under a post titled “Minda Presiden Pas” on his official Facebook page on June 28.