MCA: Samsuri's 'progressive' image marred by women gymnasts ban

The Terengganu government’s decision not to send athletes for women’s gymnastics at the 2024 Malaysian Games (Sukma) is contradicting Menteri Besar Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar’s “progressive” image, lamented MCA.

MCA vice-president Wee Jeck Seng expressed deep concern over the matter along with the recent ban on female singers from performing on stage openly at a Chinese temple as part of celebrations for the Hungry Ghost Festival.

The Tanjung Piai MP said the actions show a lack of respect for women and are significant setbacks to social and economic progress.

Wee also pointed out that the decisions contradict Samsuri’s image as a “progressive” figure in PAS who has also been floated as a prime minister candidate.

Terengganu is the only Perikatan Nasional-governed state that will not send female gymnasts to Sukma this year, held in Sarawak from Aug 17 to 24.

This was after the state banned the participation of women, especially Muslims, in gymnastics due to clothing that does not comply with requirements in Islam.

The last time Terengganu sent female gymnasts was in Sukma 2022 through Tok Exin, who has now left the sport.

Three other PN-led states - Kelantan, Kedah, and Perlis - have male and female gymnasts competing.

Bad for economy

Meanwhile, Wee said governing according to conservative religious values invariably stifles economic growth.

“States like Terengganu and other PAS-led states lag far behind in terms of economic and developmental progress, which is no coincidence but rather a reflection of their governance style,” he said.

He cited 2022 statistics, noting that Terengganu’s gross domestic product stood at RM36.9 billion, ranking second-last in the country, just ahead of Perlis.

In contrast, neighbouring Johor’s GDP was nearly four-times higher at RM150.5 billion, Wee said.

“In an increasingly conservative and closed environment, foreign investment and tourism will inevitably decline, further shrinking the economy.

“In the long term, unresolved livelihood issues will persist and young people will face even greater difficulties in employment and living conditions,” he warned.

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