Federal Territories PAS Youth today handed over a memorandum of protest to the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) against the Islamic Fashion Festival (IFF) claiming that it is an insult to Islam.

The fashion fest, of which Prime Minister's wife Rosmah Mansor is a patron, was held on Aug 9 in Monte Carlo.

NONE The memorandum was handed over by six youth leaders, with acting chief Herman Samsudeen leading the group at 11.15 this morning, and received by Jakim communications officer Asiah al-Kharib Shah.

"Although it was called an Islamic Fashion Festival, the fest was a clear insult to Islam as it featured models in sexy outfits.

"Even more disappointing is the fact that a model wore an outfit with the word ‘Muhammad' written upside down," Herman said.

In their memorandum, the group also protested against Rosmah's involvement in the fest, saying that it adversely affects Malaysia's image in the Muslim world.

NONE The group also urges Jakim to play a more responsible and active role in advising the government on such issues.

As such, they support former Perlis mufti Asri Zainul Abidin's proposal of a syariah panel, including representatives from Jakim and the National Fatwa Council to advise on the fest.

"We are not against fashion festivals (but) they must follow the Islamic way," he said, adding that the same festival is slated to be held in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 5.