As proof that the cultural trend of wearing the hijab is a fairly recent phenomenon in Singapore’s history, here are some photos of Muslim women in Singapore/Malaya before early 1970.
In everyday life:
In special occasions:
In film and pop culture:
From the above photographs, it is evident that before the early 1970’s, the hijab was not part of the Islamic dress code. Then, most Muslim women went about bareheaded or even sporting perms that were popular during that era. Even the more conservative did not wear the hijab, but rather draped a loose shawl or scarf over their head.
The increasing religiousity of Muslims around the region has obviously impacted Muslims in Singapore, as evident from the changes in our daily habits and dress code. While this in itself is not necessarily a bad thing, but we should not be so quick to also import the customs and culture of other Muslim nations, and in doing so, erode away our own beautiful Malayan heritage.
Source: www.aiseyman.com
