Academician Professor Dr Siti Zainon Ismail said, cultural costume is a form of heritage and people have to know the appropriate time to don it.
“It is not a norm to wear this kind of attire during your daily business or during visits to government offices.
“People don’t put on cultural costumes to go to the market. I think it’s safe to say that people understand where to wear it.
Dr Siti Zainon is commenting on the photo status uploaded by Teresa on her Facebook, describing the primitive Iban outfit as revealing and exposing the aurat, in addition to criticising the present government's sector dress code.
The Iban outfit, known as sirat It is a traditional attire that happens to be just a loincloth and worn during festive season.
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A screen capture of Teresa Kok's Facebook page showing an image of her with a group of Iban warriors dancers. - Screen capture of Teresa Kok's FB
“Iban costume is of course not allowed into government offices because it’s violating the current dress code.“It's a part of Malaysian colourful heritage. It should be preserved because it is one of the things that define Malaysia and one of the attractions for tourists,” she wrote.
Siti Zainon also said, her statement should be seen as a form of appreciation to cultural costumes.
“I’m not insulting these people ... I’m honouring their heritage and culture. Doesn’t matter whether it’s Iban or any other races, they need to be appreciated,” she said.
Kok had previously urged the Government to create a special portfolio for Minister of Culture, who will be the icon on how to dress appropriately in accordance with time, place and event.
She viewed was that the move should be implemented immediately once a leader, who is well-versed about Malaysian culture has been identified.
