KUALA LUMPUR, December 13 – Sports organisers in Malaysia have the discretion to impose dress codes for women athletes, as clarified by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim in the Dewan Rakyat. Responding to concerns over recent controversies, Adam said the federal government respects the conditions set by event organisers, provided they align with the consensus of all stakeholders, including state sports councils and grassroots organisations.
Adam highlighted that such decisions are often influenced by local norms and do not necessarily compromise athletes’ performance or rights. He also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to empowering women in sports through initiatives like the ‘Women Empowerment in Sports’ agenda, emphasizing the balance between cultural considerations and fostering athletic talent.
The statement marks a shift from earlier criticism of dress code restrictions, such as the PAS-led Terengganu’s directive affecting Muslim women divers in Sukma 2024.
