KUALA LUMPUR - MALAYSIAN politicians criticised the uniforms worn by flight attendants on budget carrier AirAsia on Friday, saying the skirts were too short.

'AirAsia stewardesses expose their calves, thighs and knees and this is inappropriate,' delegate Zaleha Hussin told the annual congress of the ruling United Malays National Organisation (Umno).

'Malaysia is an Islamic nation and Islam Hadhari is the basis for our lifestyle and this is inconsistent with it,' she said, referring to the government's policy of promoting a version of the religion that emphasises economic and scientific development.

Male delegates also supported the change of dress code. 'It should be implemented by explaining that we are a Muslim country,' said Azman Ruslan, a lawyer.

An AirAsia spokesman said the uniform did not compromise the staff's national identity.

'There's nothing to comment about it. Wearing this uniform doesn't make us less Malaysian,' she said by telephone.

During this week's congress, which ends on Friday, other Umno members were criticised for racially-charged antics, including one who brandished a Malay dagger, or keris, which other racial groups branded aggressive and inflammatory. -- AFP, REUTERS