Malaysian politicians criticised the uniforms worn by flight attendants on budget carrier AirAsia Friday, saying the skirts were too short and exposed the wearers' genitals.

"AirAsia stewardesses expose their calves, thighs and knees and this is inappropriate," delegate Zaleha Hussin told the annual congress of the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO).

"Malaysia is an Islamic nation and Islam Hadhari is the basis for our lifestyle and this is inconsistent with it," she said, referring to the government's policy of promoting a version of the religion that emphasises economic and scientific development.

Going a step further, UMNO assembly speaker Badruddin Amiruddin drew laughter when he used a crude euphemism to refer to female genitalia.

"For some of them you can even see their tunnel," he said in Malay.

Malaysia-based AirAsia -- whose female flight attendants wear a red jacket, white blouse and above-the-knee red skirt -- declined to comment.

Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim nation, but is also home to large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities, which include Hindus, Christians and Buddhists.

During this week's congress, which ends Friday, other UMNO members were criticised for racially-charged antics, including one who brandished a Malay dagger, or keris, which other racial groups branded aggressive and inflammatory.

UMNO, which heads a multi-ethnic coalition, is using the annual congress to gear up for elections expected to be held early next year.