Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Islamic Affairs Datuk Mujahid Yusof Rawa speaks to reporters at Parliament in Kuala Lumpur August 6, 2018. — Picture by Miera Zulyana

KUALA LUMPUR, August 6 — The Labour Department under the Human Resources Ministry will negotiate with the private sector to formulate guidelines on allowing Shariah-compliant clothing at work.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Islamic Affairs Datuk Mujahid Yusof Rawa said the discussions with the private sector have now entered the final phase.

“Once it has concluded, a report consisting of proposals on Shariah-compliant clothing will be forwarded to the Shariah panel for their feedback, and then back to the department,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

Mujahid added it is unnecessary for the public sector to develop similar guidelines as an existing one is already in place.

“The guidelines will also consider any possible instances of workplace discrimination. For example, if a women covers her aurat (with a tudung) at work as part of her religious obligation, but is then fired for doing so,” he said, adding a task force has also been formed to look into such potential cases.

The report is likely to be finalised for implementation by the year’s end.

When asked which industries would fall under the guidelines, Mujahid said it is meant for the private sector as a whole.

“It depends. Perhaps say, the airlines industry could also use the guidelines as a reference,” he said.