Recently, the issue of a woman who was allegedly not allowed from entering a police station because she had worn shorts had blown up all over social media.
According to the woman, she had gone to the Kajang police station to lodge a police report following a car accident, however, she was denied entry into the station because of their dress code.
The issue which went viral captured the attention of Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani who took to opportunity to remind anyone going to a police station that they should keep the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara in mind and dress courteously and mind their morals.
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Acryl also mentioned that the only times exceptions are made are when it involves a “life or death” emergency and that this is because “government offices are where people do business.”
Isn’t crime fighting more important?
It is safe to say that Acryl’s comments did not go down well with the general public who have all condemned the police force for their perceived wrong priorities.
“Why is this rule there in the first place? How does it benefit the nation or the public?”
One user said, “If I got raped in whatever I’m wearing, am I expected to change out of it despite potential evidence on my clothes just to look ‘acceptable’ at the police station?”
Another user argued against the point regarding the Rukun Negara which Acryl was making and said that as per the Rukun Negara which asks people to respect the constitution and the sovereignty of law, everyone has the right to make a police report (no dress code specified).
On the other hand, a number of politicians have also called out the comments made by Acryl.
Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman said in a statement that no one would go to a police station unless necessary and everyone should be allowed access to lodge a police report without being judged for their attire.
“I am urging the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to perform their duty without prejudice, and not be sexist towards women. Those who go to a police station are those in need of help. Their attire should not be an issue.”
“PDRM’s job is to safeguard peace and security, not be the rakyat’s moral police,” she added in her statement.
Meanwhile, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said that there should be no discrimination against any party.
“It is inappropriate to deny access to any individuals to a police station regardless of how they dress,” she said.
What do you think? Do dress codes really matter when you’re trying to report a crime? Let us know in the comments.
Also read: IGP: Public Must Follow Dress Codes at Police Stations Except in ‘Life or Death’ Emergencies
