Gender expression or inappropriate? Crossdressing at awards show sparks backlash, debate

SHAH ALAM – An awards night held at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Feb 16 drew attention not just for the recognising local music talent but also for some controversial fashion choices.

While the performances and presentations were the highlights of the event, it was the appearance of crossdressers—particularly among influencers—that sparked a heated online debate.

The controversy arose after some attendees, notably from the influencer community, appeared at the event in crossdressing outfits, drawing criticism from social media users.

In photos circulating on social media, a man was seen clad in a long black gown, accessorised with a matching purse and long black evening gloves.

Another was spotted in a white blouse paired with high-waisted furry trousers, completing the look with a handbag.

Additionally, a man was seen wearing a red, heart-shaped dress with a matching hat, while another had a sheer blue bridal-style veil draped over their head, coordinated with an all-blue ensemble.

All of them were also wearing makeup, further accentuating their overall appearance.

Many netizens took to platforms like X to voice their disapproval, claiming that such attire was inappropriate for a formal event.

One user commented, “The fashion these days is terrible. It’s sad to see how the media in Malaysia is normalising men dressing as women.”

Others echoed similar sentiments, expressing their concerns over crossdressing being celebrated at mainstream events.

Critics also raised religious objections, with some citing Sharia law and arguing that crossdressing contradicts Islamic principles.

For instance, one X user remarked, "Please ban Muslim men from dressing like women at future award events."

The backlash continued with other users suggesting that strict dress codes should be enforced, and some questioned the morality of allowing crossdressing at public events.

However, not everyone agreed with the criticism. Supporters of fashion freedom, particularly those in the fashion community, took to social media to counter the backlash.

They argued that fashion is not bound by gender and that personal expression through attire should not be restricted by traditional gender norms.

One user argued, "In fashion, gender has no meaning, so please educate yourself."

Another comment called out the criticism, stating, "The show really reveals the bitter and hateful attitudes of some people."

The controversy also caught the attention of religious figures and academics.

Independent preacher Syed Mohd Bakri Syed Ishak, better known as PU Syed, expressed disappointment with the programme organisers, seen as attempting to normalise men dressing as women, which he says is clearly against Islamic law.

"Why are we now so eager to showcase ourselves and this misguidance in front of others?"

"I urge the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), as the responsible authority in our country, to take action against those who organised this event and prosecute them," he said in a video posted on Facebook on Monday.

An academician Associate Professor Dr Ahmad Sanusi shared his opinion on Instagram, advising men against dressing as women.

He referenced Islamic teachings, specifically hadiths that prohibit gender impersonation, and emphasised that Islam forbids acts that deviate from natural gender roles, considering such behaviour sinful.

"If wearing clothing that contradicts one's original gender is already prohibited, then attempting to normalise and legitimise the LGBTQ+ community, which is clearly against Islamic teachings, is even more unacceptable.

"It is the duty of a Muslim to prevent the recognition of wrongdoing," he wrote in the caption on Monday.

He further stressed the importance of preventing the normalisation of gender fluidity, asserting that Muslims have a responsibility to uphold traditional values. His stance reflects broader concerns about preserving cultural and religious principles in the face of evolving social norms.

Meanwhile, Section 28 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997 states that it is an offence for a man to wear female clothing and behave like a woman in public for immoral purposes.

If convicted, offenders may face a fine of up to RM1,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.