A female Muslim gymnast has been criticised by religious figures for wearing a leotard that they deemed too revealing.
Farah Ann Abdul Hadi won six medals at the South-East Asia Games last week, but her success was marred by critics.
The 21-year-old was condemned for showing off her 'aurat', which is an Islamic word for the shape of the genitalia and thighs, as the religion states that it must be covered from view.
In defence of the gymnast, Malaysian sports minister Khairy Jamaluddin said in a press conference: "As minister of sport, I still hold to the principle that it is up to the athlete on what he or she wants to wear as long as the attire is regulation approved by the federation, by the sport - that's his or her choice, what he or she wants to wear.
"I think this whole incident also smacks of sexism. Nobody has complained about kinky Speedos, or Sazali [Samad] wearing tight shorts when he flexes his muscles, but when it comes to gymnasts, suddenly it's a big problem.
"In gymnastics, Farah wowed the judges and brought home gold. In her deeds only the Almighty judges her. Not you. Leave our athletes alone."
A Facebook page supporting Hadi was recently created and has attracted more than 17,000 'likes'.
Danielle Joynson
