National gymnast Farah Ann Abdul Hadi became the target of a bizarre public debate after her stunning turn at the recent Singapore SEA Games, where she won two gold medals, a silver, and three bronze.
Brushing her achievements aside, some Malaysians decried her “inappropriate” sporting attire, culminating in Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Islamic Affairs Jamil Khir Baharom to call for a review of Jakim guidelines for Muslim athletes representing the country.
Thousands rose up to defend Farah Ann, and today she gets one more: Sultan of Selangor Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
In a letter issued by the Selangor Royal Palace and delivered to Farah Ann today, Sultan Sharafuddin praised her sporting achievements, and expressed his displeasure at those who targeted the gymnast for her uniform at the Singapore Games.
“Criticising your attire should be the last matter in the minds of those who commented negatively on social media.
“They should be celebrating your achievements for Malaysia and Selangor,” His Royal Highness wrote in the letter, as quoted by The Star Online‘s Rahimy Rahim.
Sultan Sharafuddin added that he hoped Farah Ann would overcome the negativity surrounding her in the wake of the uniform controversy, and hoped that she would transcend the views of the narrow-minded to excel in her sport.
“Malaysia’s future lies in the younger generation like you and the rakyat supporting them to excel instead of giving negative comments.
“I am sure it must have taken years of hard work, dedication, determination and long hours of training to reach the level that you have achieved.”
In an immediate repsonse, Farah Ann said she was humbled and honoured to have received the letter from the Sultan.
“I would like to express my highest gratitude towards the Sultan of Selangor for taking his time to write me the letter,” she said.
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