Malacca Islamic Dept moves to protect 'sacred' island from bikinis

The Malacca Islamic Affairs Department (Jaim) will meet enforcement agencies to find ways to morally police tourists, including non-Muslims, at an island revered for its Islamic history.

This was after non-Muslim tourists were spotted wearing bikinis at Pulau Besar.

Pulau Besar - not to be mistaken for a similarly named island in Johor - was believed to be a launching pad for Islam in the Malay Archipelago during the 15th century and has numerous historical sites such as tombs of various Islamic figures.

It is also known for its pristine beaches.

A video screenshot - reportedly from around Christmas - allegedly showed several women, said to be foreign tourists, at the island wearing short pants and bikini tops.

Malaysiakini was not able to find the original video or the screenshot of which a heavily censored version was published by local media.

Jaim director Che Sukri Che Mat said this had tarnished the image and sanctity of Pulau Besar and caused unease among the public.

However, he said as the tourists were non-Muslims, the religious department could not take any action.

Hence, Che Sukri said a meeting between Jaim and various agencies including the police will be held on Tuesday to discuss a way forward.

“The meeting may discuss what action can be taken against foreign tourists who tarnish the image and sanctity of Pulau Besar which has been venerated for its historical value about the start of Islam (in the archipelago),” he was quoted as saying by Berita Harian.

In the meantime, he said, Jaim will suggest that the Malacca Historic City Council (MBMB) put up sign boards reminding tourists to dress decently and not conduct activities that are against Islamic teachings - such as bringing alcohol to the island.

He said boat operators and those running accommodations can also help by advising tourists, some of whom may not be aware of the island’s Islamic history.

“Such clothing (bikinis) are only suitable in a room, and shouldn’t be shown to the Pulau Besar community, don’t take it lightly,” he added.

This is not the first time Jaim’s involvement in Pulau Besar has made the news.

In January 2021, the religious department said it was investigating deviant Islamic practices on the island.

Pulau Besar had, in the past, been famous for deviant practices such as praying and seeking favours at the tombs of Muslim historical figures, a practice that is against Islamic teachings.

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