The issue of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) allegedly imposing a dress code on travelers has sparked concerns, prompting figureheads to seek clarity on the matter.
Rumors have been circulating suggesting that visitors may be denied entry into the country if their attire does not meet the required standards, such as travelers wearing shorts and tight clothings.
In light of these rumors, the chairman of a Malaysian safety alliance has questioned the authenticity of the claims. The chairman has called on relevant authorities to provide clarification regarding the existence of such protocols.
“Moral police” on the prowl
Recently, a TikTok video surfaced, claiming that “moral police” at KLIA were denying entry to travelers wearing shorts and tight clothing. The individual sharing this information stated that it was received from a tour bus operator.
Although uncertain about the truthfulness of the claims, he suggested that this might be a contributing factor to the decline in the number of travelers from countries like China to Malaysia.
He also highlighted the recent news of authorities seemingly cracking down on locals wearing shorts, indicating that foreign visitors were also being targeted.
@drkoh58 ♬ original sound – DrKHH
In response to these allegations, Dr. Lee Lam Thye, the chairman of Malaysia’s Alliance for Safe Community, expressed skepticism about their validity.
Dr. Lee suggested that if travelers are not appropriately dressed, authorities should kindly remind them to be mindful of the dress code in the future.
He emphasized that the focus should not be solely on attire, as KLIA serves as Malaysia’s gateway to the world. Dr. Lee called for the relevant authorities to address this matter in a suitable manner.
Furthermore, the chairman urged the government’s chief secretary to conduct a review and issue clear directives regarding dress codes for visitors to government agencies as soon as possible.
He emphasized the need for specific guidelines rather than arbitrary or temporary regulations that may be subjectively interpreted by enforcers. Dr. Lee cited a case in Penang where a government office allegedly denied entry to a woman despite her skirt being below the knee.
However, the office denied the existence of any dress codes, as reported by The Star. Stressing the importance of unambiguous regulations, Dr. Lee stated that no official should interpret the dress code based on their personal judgment.