15/03/2026

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday MAR 15, 2026

Slip-on jackets for jemaah

Mosque offers coveralls so images on shirts do not distract worshippers

Its deputy director, Abdul Zaki Md Zain described the effort as thoughtful and worthy of adoption by other mosques across the state. He noted that the practice indirectly helps preserve concentration during prayer, especially for worshippers standing in the back rows. “In the Shafi‘i school of thought, wearing clothing with prominent images or text during prayer is considered makruh (discouraged but not forbidden) because it may distract other congregants and affect their concentration. The jackets, therefore, do more than cover a shirt. In a quiet way, they help restore what many worshippers seek most in prayer – calm, focus and a moment of undisturbed devotion.”

Idros, a former director of Pahang Tourism, Arts and Culture Department, said the initiative was partly inspired by his experience in the tourism sector, including efforts to promote mosque tourism to foreign visitors. He noted that visitors at many state mosques and even the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur are typically provided with robes to ensure modest attire within mosque premises. “The concept is similar. Instead of reprimanding anyone, we simply offer an extra layer of clothing so they can pray more comfortably and respectfully,” he said, adding the initiative has been well received. The initiative has also drawn praise from the Pahang Islamic Religious Department.

KUANTAN: and practical. At first glance, the row of neatly hung jackets at Masjid Al Mujahirin Indera Mahkota may look like an ordinary convenience. But for many worshippers, the simple garment has become a solution to an unexpected distraction during congregational prayers. Mosque chairman Datuk Idros Yahya said the idea came from his observation of congregants, particularly those arriving from outside the area or coming directly from work or recreational activities. He noted that many wore uniforms, sports jerseys or casual clothing printed with Simple beauty of batik to the younger generation. Sharing the journey of Oh Dayang, she said the business began around 2018, sparked by the interest of her sister, Dayang Nur Syafiqah, who often made bracelets and small accessories using recycled batik fabric. “At the beginning, we only produced accessories such as earrings and bracelets. Each piece was carefully cut and crafted, making every accessory unique. “From there we began to see the potential of batik to be turned into more modern fashion accessories.” Following encouraging response, Oh Dayang began experimenting with various new designs to attract different segments of society, including hijab pins, brooches, hair clips, bag and phone chains made

bold slogans and images across the back, which could easily distract worshippers praying in the rows behind. Idros and the mosque committee decided to provide a simple solution to cover the distractions. “We do not want anyone to feel unwelcome at the mosque. So we offer jackets that they can slip on before prayers to cover any writing or pictures on their clothing.” Idros said the mosque spent about RM800 to purchase around 20 jackets, which are placed near the various entrances of the mosque for easy access before prayers, Bernama reported.

Idros said many mosques often provide robes to visitors to ensure modest attire within the premises. – BERNAMAPIC

From fabric leftovers to fashion statements

KUALA LUMPUR: Leftover batik fabric that are no longer useful can be given a new lease of life as unique and attractive fashion accessories. In the creative hands of Dayang Nur Arina M. Roslan, the small pieces of the patterned fabric are transformed into earrings, hijab pins and brooches that are not only beautiful to wear but also carry a touch of local heritage. The idea became the foundation for the establishment of the local accessory brand Oh Dayang, which produces a variety of accessories made from leftover batik fabric with distinctive patterns and character. According to Dayang Nur Arina, 25, the effort is not merely about producing stylish accessories but also about making use of recycled materials while introducing the

Dayang Nur Arina said among the products that receive the most demand are hijab pins. – BERNAMAPIC

time. This year we introduced something different by launching a collection of fully hand-painted batik.” – Bernama

“When it was first introduced, customer response was very encouraging and the stock we produced sold out within a short

from local batik motifs. Dayang Nur Arina said among the products that receive the most demand are the hijab pins.

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