The government has introduced an immediate exemption from dress code requirements for individuals reporting emergencies at police stations.
Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said a circular issued on December 29 makes the exemption effective immediately, ensuring urgent cases receive prompt attention without procedural delays.
The exemption covers incidents such as criminal offences, road accidents, security threats, and traumatic situations like rape or domestic violence. “In such cases, the welfare and safety of complainants take priority,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.
Shamsul Anuar added that the directive safeguards the rights of the public and prevents unnecessary barriers due to attire, and it has been communicated to all police headquarters nationwide for uniform implementation.
The announcement came in response to a proposal by Ramkarpal Singh (PH-Bukit Gelugor) advocating that police stations accept reports regardless of clothing. The deputy minister noted that existing administrative directives sufficiently address the matter, negating the need for new legislation.
The move aligns with a 2025 public service circular on improving customer relations, which allows government agencies to set dress codes for routine counter transactions while ensuring flexibility in urgent situations.
