Thousands back Muslim gymnast in row over her controversial attire

Some critics in the majority Muslim country slammed the 21-year-old, saying that the outfit was very revealing and should not have been worn by her in the first place.

Malaysia's Faran Ann Abdul Hadi — Malaysia’s Faran Ann Abdul Hadi has been criticised for the leotard she wore at the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore. -Reuters

Farah wrote on the page: “I would just like to express my sincerest gratitude to all of you who have been supporting me.

“It is such an overwhelming feeling to have had such a great and positive respond from all of you.”

Abdul Hadi, who won six medals in total at the Games in Singapore, has won broad support in the controversy including from Malaysia’s youth and sports minister.

In response to her critics, Khairy Jamaluddin tweeted: “In gymnastics Farah wowed the judges and brought home gold.

“In her deeds only the Almighty judges her. Not you. Leave our athletes alone.”

However, divisions remain and one Malaysian Islamic group reportedly called for guidelines to help female Muslim athletes stay sharia law-compliant when they compete.

Farah Ann Abdul Hadi, Southeast Asian Games, Singapore — Farah Ann Abdul Hadi competes at the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore. -AFP

“Women should not be stopped from sports, but they must prioritise the Islamic codes in sports attire,” said Roszida Kamaruddin, head of the female wing of the National Muslim Youth Association, according to the Malay Mail.

The double gold medallist fired back on Twitter with the message saying “Empty cans make the most noise.”

Empty cans make the most noise

— Farah Ann Abdul Hadi (@farahannhadi) June 12, 2015

She also thanked people for their support,

Thank you so much for all the support. I appreciate it so much. Love you all — Farah Ann Abdul Hadi (@farahannhadi) June 13, 2015