Perak PAS information chief Wan Tarmizi Abd Aziz has suggested that women should mark International Women's Day by consenting to polygamy.

"Women's Day will be more meaningful if a woman gifts another woman to her spouse as a mark of appreciation of other women," Wan Tarmizi wrote on his Facebook account.

At the time of writing, his Facebook post had attracted 10 comments, comprising mixed reactions.

Some even asked if Wan Tarmizi's Facebook account was hacked.

Wan Tarmizi told Malaysiakini his statement was based on Islamic teachings.

"In Islam, one has to fulfil certain conditions to have more than one wife... Financial obligations are just one condition... He has to be a provider," he said.

He said he was unperturbed by criticisms over his views.

Wan Tarmizi confirmed that he is currently in a monogamous relationship and refused to confirm if his wife shared his views on polygamy.

Polygamy is legal for Muslims in Malaysia but only with the permission of the Syariah Court. Proponents believe that polygamy decreases the likelihood of men having extra-marital affairs.

However, opponents and NGOs have documented numerous cases of women whose husbands were in polygamous relationships facing neglect, jealousy and being forced into divorce.

Editor's note: In wake of the controversy, Wan Tarmizi has taken down his Facebook posting (see above).