President Halimah Yacob has spoken up about an offensive poll used "to rank the sexual attractiveness" of female asatizah.

The poll, which featured pictures of 12 local asatizah, has been circulating online since May 26.

It has received strong criticism from many public figures, including Halimah.

"Deeply perturbed"

In a Facebook post on May 27, Halimah said that she is "deeply perturbed" to read about the poll.

She added that those who had conducted the poll, as well as the participants, deserve strong condemnation.

"Is there no limit to how low some will stoop to degrade and defile women?" asked Halimah.

Urged MUIS and police to investigate

Halimah subsequently stated that the the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) and the Singapore police "should fully investigate this and punish those found guilty".

"This is not just the worst kind of harassment that’s against our law but amounts to an open invitation to commit sexual violence against women.

We must not allow the anonymity of the web to embolden those who wish to abuse, denigrate and violate women."

Responding to queries from Mothership, the police confirmed that a report was lodged. Investigations are ongoing.

Mothership has also reached out to MUIS for a statement.

Students studying religion are allegedly involved

Halimah also addressed allegations that students studying religion may be involved in this matter.

She said that if they were indeed involved, serious considerations have to be taken on whether they are fit to preach in the community once they complete their studies.

You can read Halimah's full post here:

Top images from Zahid Zin/IG & Halimah Yacob/FB.