COMMENT Malaysiakini ’s news report ‘ Union wants hijab option for Muslim MAS crew ’ and the request by National Union of Flight Attendants Malaysia for female crew of Malaysia Airlines to be “given the option to observe Muslim dress code” begs for analysis.

A "hijab option" is not the same as "Muslim dress code". The latter is problematic in its various implications. A dress code is like a uniform at work. Comply or face disciplinary action.

Why is this hijab option open only to females I ask? Consider if a male crew member wants to spot a beard, collar-length hair, headgear with a long flowing shift, open-toe sandals or decides that green is the right colour for his spiritual dress option.

But that is not going to happen as we know that there is more emphasis of dress of Muslim females but not males. My reluctant observation is, Malaysia is still a gender traditional society in so many ways where gender stereotypes are visible but unquestioned...