Historically, Malay and Indonesian women wore looser coverings like the (a light shawl) paired with traditional outfits such as the baju kurung or kebaya . These earlier styles often left some hair visible, reflecting a localized interpretation of modesty rooted in Malay cultural heritage.

In Melayu culture, the jilbab is seen as an essential aspect of a Muslim woman's attire. It is a symbol of piety, humility, and respect for one's faith. The jilbab is also closely tied to the concept of "aurat," which refers to the parts of the body that are considered private and should be covered in public. For Muslim women, wearing the jilbab is a way to demonstrate their commitment to their faith and to protect their aurat.

Despite its cultural significance, the jilbab has been at the center of social controversies in both Malaysia and Indonesia. Some of the key issues include:

The role of the headscarf in public life varies due to different governing models: