KUALA LUMPUR — The Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) has welcomed AirAsia’s decision to allow its Muslim female flight attendants to wear the hijab beginning next year. IKIM described the move as a positive development aligned with the principles of religious freedom, social justice, and respect for the identity and dignity of Muslim women in the workforce. It said the gradual change, consistent with the al-Tadarruj approach in contemporary ijtihad, has successfully reshaped a long-standing policy.
The director-general of IKIM, Assoc. Prof. Datuk Dr. Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil spoke that the decision reflects growing industry awareness of the need to create a more inclusive and safe working environment that respects employees’ religious beliefs and personal choices. It also demonstrates that modern airlines can balance professionalism, cultural diversity and operational requirements without compromising service quality.
“IKIM recognised AirAsia’s initiative as a best-practice model that could serve as an example for other corporate organisations seeking to uphold harmony, mutual respect, and compatibility between religious requirements and industry needs. The move also reinforces Malaysia’s image as a diverse nation that embraces pluralism within a framework of dignity and human integrity,” he said.
He spoke further that the institute expressed its full support for workplace policies that respect Syariah-compliant attire, in line with the maqasid syariah principles of safeguarding dignity (hifz al-‘ird), protecting religious freedom and ensuring the well-being of employees. IKIM believes that an inclusive work environment sensitive to religious values will have a positive impact on employee morale, organisational reputation and national harmony.
Dr. Mohamed Azam added that IKIM will continue working with all stakeholders to promote harmony, intercultural understanding, and the strengthening of ethical and Syariah standards within Malaysia’s employment and service sectors. (Bernama)
