Kelantan

Kelantan, a state on Malaysia's east coast, is drawing attention for several reasons. Known for its conservative Islamic values, recent events highlight the tension between these values and modern practices. A religious probe was launched after a viral video of a mermaid-themed sales gimmick during Ramadan sparked outrage. Separately, a woman was ejected from a motorcycle event in Kota Baru, Kelantan, for wearing clothing deemed too revealing, and others were given headscarves. These incidents underscore the strict dress code expectations in the state. Politically, Kelantan is relevant due to the influence of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), which is actively seeking to attract young voters, potentially impacting upcoming elections. PAS's focus on online media and its conservative Islamist platform are key factors in this effort. The state also reflects broader national issues, such as the ongoing challenge of tuberculosis and debates over religious expressions in politics.