Kuala lumpur: The government has relaxed dress code rules at government counters and offices during emergencies or unusual situations to ensure the public’s right to immediate services is not denied. Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, stated that this decision considers the needs of frontline services such as security, healthcare, and other public-facing services.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shamsul Azri highlighted that the relaxation of the dress code is permitted in emergency situations and circumstances outside the norm to guarantee customers’ rights to immediate service. This is outlined in Section 3.2 of Appendix A of Public Administration Circular (PKPA) 1/2025. Emergencies and unusual situations, such as accident reports, fire reports, and disaster-related matters that threaten lives and property, are included under this provision.

For routine matters at government counters and offices, Shamsul Azri mentioned that department heads have the discretion to decide on appropriate and respectful attire based on current guidelines. He emphasized that the public service aims to continually improve customer relations, ensuring services are accessible, friendly, efficient, and responsive, in alignment with the Ihsan principles of the MADANI core values.

Additionally, Shamsul Azri pointed out that the dress code for government counters or offices is detailed in PKPA No. 1 of 2025: Strengthening Public Sector Customer Relationship Management, which became effective on January 20. The guidelines stipulate that attire must be respectful and appropriate, adhering to the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara, which emphasizes courtesy and morality.