THE Federal Territory Islamic Department (JAWI) has been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation following a viral social media video showing a local man dressed as a woman while attending an international event.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the probe aims to ensure appropriate action is taken under existing laws.
“This conduct has drawn negative reactions from the public and is seen as challenging religious sensitivities as well as cultural norms in the country,” he stated.
He added that from an Islamic perspective, imitating the opposite gender contravenes Shariah principles and should not be normalised in society.
“From the Islamic standpoint, the act of resembling the other gender is contrary to Shariah and should not be normalised within the community,” Dr Zulkifli emphasised.
JAWI has also been directed to collaborate with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to remove related content from social media platforms.
“The approach will continue to focus on religious guidance and preventive measures through sermons, religious programmes, and dissemination on social media, in order to enhance public understanding and preserve national harmony and cultural values,” he added.
The controversy stems from a 27-second video that circulated widely online, showing a man dressed as a woman receiving an award at a high-profile international ceremony, sparking debate on social norms and religious sensitivities. - December 25, 2025
