Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has told the Terengganu government not to interfere with athletes’ sports attire.

This followed reports that the state government will introduce syariah-compliant clothing for state athletes beginning next year. 

Syed Saddiq said several athletes have contacted him over the matter and he is obliged to come to their defence.

“Please respect the choice of our heroes and heroines. Leave them alone.

“Sports is for all and our athletes are our heroes and heroines. Some athletes have personally contacted me on this issue. I’m obligated to defend them as they are the nation’s assets.

“This is alarming as the future of sports like gymnastics, diving, swimming, bodybuilding will be affected,” he said in a statement on his Facebook account today.

Syed Saddiq said there are many Muslim athletes who have contributed to the national medal count, such as gymnast Farah Ann Hadi, diver Nur Dhabitah Sabri, and bodybuilder Sazali Samad.

“These are sports Malaysia does well in with multiple medals being won in Commonwealth, Olympic, Asian and SEA games by these athletes […]

“I will stand with all of them regardless of their outfits. I am here because of them. Please leave them alone!” he urged.

Syed Saddiq said the Terengganu native Azizul Hasni Awang is also a world champion cyclist.

Yesterday, Terengganu state exco Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah said the state would start implementing syariah-compliant clothing for its state athletes next year, starting with the state football team.

Bernama quoted him as saying that all Muslim football players under the Terengganu Football Association were required to wear syariah-compliant attire during any tournament, whether inside and outside the state, from next season.

The move is in line with the Terengganu government's policy of placing Islam as the main pillar of the administration, including for sports, Wan Sukairi said.

For non-Muslims, he said it is up to them to wear syariah-compliant clothing at their convenience, but they are encouraged to follow the policy.