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For good or bad, dress codes are important. They define character, a person’s place in society and, in many instances, their profession.

While they should be strictly observed, there also has to be some flexibility in the definition of decency.

Yet another dress code policing incident has taken place, this time at Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan Kuantan (HTAA), where an elderly woman clad in pedal pushers (calf-length trousers) was not allowed entry into the establishment.

Twitter user @jan_1513 shared the 15 second clip on Twitter with the caption: “One more case in Kuantan – can’t get into hospital. Happy International Women’s day!”

One more case in Kuantan- can’t get into hospital. Happy International Woman’s day! pic.twitter.com/vYh1W65MbL
— Dominic Damian JAN 1513 (@jan_1513) March 8, 2023

Addressing the dispute, Pahang Health director Datuk Dr Nor Azimi Yunus said it was due to a misunderstanding of the dress code.

In a statement, Nor Azimi said this was likely due to a misunderstanding by the security guard about the definition of the dress code to enter the hospital.

So far, no similar problem has arisen for visitors who are dressed in such a way to enter during visiting hours, except for those not decently dressed. HTAA has taken appropriate measures to make the security guards understand that they should not take any enforcement action without official instructions from the hospital.
Pahang Health director Datuk Dr Nor Azimi Yunus

Nor Azimi also said the hospital’s management and Pahang State Health Department take this incident seriously and will continue to strive to improve the effectiveness of communication between the appointed security guards in welcoming visitors and patients who enter and receive treatment at any premises of the Ministry of Health.

However, this did not stop netizens from sharing their thoughts on the issue.

Twitter user @AK_arvinkumar said:

2023 and we are still seeing this. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with her attire. @DrZalihaMustafa, hope you’re looking into this matter.
@AK_arvinkumar via Twitter

Another Twitter user @thanessha said:

@KKMPutrajaya let’s say someone is dying or in extreme pain, are you going to deny them medical treatment; all for violating a “dress code”.
@thanessha via Twitter

On the other hand, Twitter user @adriantai suggested there be a blanket directive immediately to remind hospital management that everyone is given access.

The security guard should only assist when there’s violence or abuse. Suspend the management team who still prevents access @anwaribrahim @KKMPutrajaya.
@adriantai via Twitter

What do you think about dress codes in places such as police stations and hospitals?

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Dress Code: Visitor Barred From Entering Kuantan Hospital Due To Misunderstanding