Cleric Harussani Zakaria in a statement to a local paper said “Gymnastics is not for Muslim women. It is clear that exposing one’s aurat and the shape of one’s body is forbidden in Islam.”
PHOTO: FACEBOOK
Regardless of the hurtful comments by the Muslim community over her leotard which revealed her "aurat", Hadi, 21, had fans from all over the world supporting her.
Read: Muslim gymnast criticised for 'revealing' costume as she wins double-gold
Twitter and Facebook went viral with overwhelming comments for the Malaysian athlete from fans calling themselves "FARAHnatics."
The list of supporters also included Khairy Jamaluddin, Malaysia's youth and sports minister.
In gymnastics Farah wowed the judges and brought home gold. In her deeds only the Almighty judges her. Not you. Leave our athletes alone.
— Khairy Jamaluddin 🇲🇾🌺 (@Khairykj) June 12, 2015
It further grew with the international restaurant joint Nando's praising Hadi on Twitter.
Dear SEA Games athletes, #WeSoProudOfYou #hatersgonnahate #loversgonnalove #valentinobonjovibong #farahann #teamMY pic.twitter.com/r8jEZ2xHag
— Nando's Malaysia (@NandosMY) June 19, 2015
The supporters offered a more insightful and different approach to the matter compared to the extremists.
https://twitter.com/KPRAO3/status/609350309601656833
Empty cans makes the most noise.
— RABBITMAC (@hollarabbitmac) June 13, 2015
- Farah Ann
Gold for Malaysia. Respect. #FARAHANN
https://twitter.com/HalinaZaini/status/609308669465923585
A fan page, Farah Ann Abdul Hadi For Malaysia was created on Facebook where supporters came together to congratulate the gymnast and share pictures and videos of her stunts.
PHOTO: FACEBOOK
PHOTO: FACEBOOK
Overwhelmed with the support, young Hadi came out to thank her fans, stating "I love you all. Thank you again for all the support and words of encouragement. It means so much to me."
PHOTO: FACEBOOK
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