KUALA LUMPUR – The government has announced a review of its 2020 dress code guidelines for public premises, following an incident where a woman was denied entry to a police station for wearing a skirt deemed too short.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, who is also the government’s spokesperson, confirmed during a press conference today that the decision was made after the Cabinet discussed the matter.
The Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, will now assess and amend the existing circular to address the concerns raised, particularly regarding exemptions for frontline services such as police stations, Fahmi said.
“The issue emerged recently when an individual was barred from entering a police station to file a report due to her attire,” said Fahmi. “In light of this, KSN will revisit the circular and implement necessary improvements.”
He further explained that the Cabinet agreed that essential frontline services, including those related to health and security, should be exempt from the 2020 dress code guidelines. This will include police stations, where such restrictions are now deemed inappropriate.
“The Prime Minister’s view on this issue is clear: when it comes to security matters, especially at police stations, there should be no barriers preventing anyone from lodging a police report,” Fahmi added.
The controversy follows an incident on Monday, when a woman and her daughter were refused entry to the Jasin District Police Headquarters in Melaka due to the woman’s skirt being slightly above the knee. The police chief of Melaka had previously reinforced the dress code rules, stating exceptions would only apply in emergencies.
However, the government’s swift response signals a change in policy to ensure greater accessibility to police services.
A revised circular is expected to be issued soon, following a detailed review by the Chief Secretary’s office. – December 10, 2025