In a striking reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity, the Johor police have detained three participants of the Pan Asia International Run.
They were allegedly engaging in indecent and lewd behaviour during the event held in Bandar Penawar, Desaru, from 4th to 6th October 2024.
According to reports from the NST, the three men—comprising one local and two foreign nationals aged between 39 and 70—were detained at a hotel around 10pm following allegations of inappropriate conduct during the fun run.
The police confiscated several items, including a red saree, a red skirt, silver cardboard cutouts, and a silver replica spear.
Participants in the run, both men and women, were seen wearing red t-shirts, with some opting for more revealing attire, including lingerie and sarees.
One participant notably caused a stir by donning only a traditional Iban outfit known as a Kelambi, which left his back exposed, revealing that he was shirtless.
Following that, the Johor regent, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, took to his X page to announce the arrests, stating, “Action has been taken and the culprits have been arrested. Zero tolerance in Johor.”
Tindakan telah di ambil. Action has been taken and the culprits have been arrested. Zero tolerance in Johor. https://t.co/W33gQXGXD2 pic.twitter.com/qKgfjCwuWX
— HRH Crown Prince of Johor (@HRHJohorII) October 6, 2024
His Highness also shared a press statement from the Johor Chief Minister, Dato’ Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi.
He clarified that the event had not been organised by the State Government or any of its agencies.
In his statement, he emphasised that the Johor State Government has never granted permission for events that do not respect the sensitivities of Islam.
After consulting with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the event organisers, it was clarified that the inappropriate dressing by participants was beyond the control of the organisers.
The State Government takes these matters seriously and has requested further investigation by the PDRM, making it clear that strict action will be taken against any parties organising events that threaten the harmony and sovereignty of Islam or damage the overall image of Johor.
They were fined
Today (October 7), The Star reported that two foreign men were fined RM5,000 each by a Magistrate’s Court in Pengerang after pleading guilty to wearing indecent clothing during the fun run in Johor.
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