KUALA LUMPUR: She may have valid reasons to host Monday’s event at a nightclub, and netizens should not act as God to judge others.
Nevertheless, Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor should pay heed to the concerns of muftis, as all Muslims respect their spiritual teachers.
So said award-winning director Erma Fatima who has shown support for actress and businesswoman Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor.
Neelofa, 29, is facing criticism from Netizens after launching her new line of Naelofar Hijab headscarves at Zouk in Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur last Monday.
“It’s a marketing strategy by Neelofa, and that’s similar to many artistes organising or hosting events at major hotels and restaurants. It’s all right as long as there isn’t any alcohol or immoral activities being carried out,” said Anugerah Skrin 2017 Best TV Director Erma when interviewed yesterday.
Erma also said that as a Muslim, Neelofa understood that wearing “hijab” was not merely a fashion statement but a symbol of modesty and moderation.
“I’m sure she has good reasons for choosing the venue, and it’s about promoting modesty in fashion and conduct.”
When asked about the criticism of Neelofa by Perak mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria, Negri Sembilan mufti Datuk Mohd Yusof Ahmad and Federal Territories mufti Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, Erma said Neelofa ought to listen to their advice since they were respected spiritual leaders.
“I’m sure she will listen to their advice, as we all do, and make the necessary amends next time.”
Persatuan Seniman Malaysia (Seniman) president Zed Zaidi also defended Neelofa, and reasoned that the Kelantan-born actress was “conducting dakwah” at an entertainment venue by launching her new “hijab” there.
“It’s her approach to “dakwah”, and she’s chosen a popular entertainment spot for the purpose. Her intention is to promote modesty, thus it’s not fair for us to judge her,” said Zed, adding that he believed the actress would also listen to the muftis’ advice and address their concerns.
Meanwhile, television host and actress Daphne Iking who emceed the launch said in an Instagram post yesterday that there were “no alcohol-related posters or cigarettes at Zouk, and guests were not allowed to smoke, too.”
“Only posters of the product launch were displayed,” said Daphne, whose post had more than 1,800 likes.
Daphne also revealed that Neelofa had considered several locations, and made her decision based on budgetary constraints, logistics and practicality.
She also revealed that the women dancing in a viral video were participants in a special “lip sync” performance which she oversaw that evening.
“The theme was ‘neon’ and not many places have neon lights, so that’s why Zouk was chosen as the venue.”