The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) said the criticism of DAP Women chief Chong Eng that the Friday sermons
by Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) regarding females covering themselves last week, was something done deliberately to raise an issue as she had run out of ideas.

Jakim director-general Othman Mustapha said Chong Eng's action was
seen as something merely done for her political interests.

"In terms of action, it is all under the state. This means Islamic
departments in each state have authority," he said.

He said this to reporters after attending an Islamic conference in Pahang today.

Chong Eng, who is also Padang Lalang state-assemblyman had released a statement criticising Jais whom she claimed had disseminated confusing information regarding female covering themselves in its sermon titled 'Aurat: Antara Kebabasan dan Maruah Diri' (Aurat: Between Freedom and Dignity).    

- Bernama