Bold claim: Dress codes at federal offices in Sarawak should respect local culture rather than impose a one-size-fits-all standard. The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) is voicing strong criticism toward the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) for enforcing a strict dress code at its Miri Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) office, labeling it an unwelcome federal mandate on Sarawakian communities.
SUPP secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting argues that federal agencies operating in Sarawak must honor the state’s rich multicultural landscape and avoid rigid rules that hamper public service. “We do not welcome this form of federal imposition on the people of Sarawak. We urge the Inland Revenue Board to revert to the prior practice, which has never caused issues throughout our history,” stated Ting, the Piasau assemblyman.
Ting emphasized that the dress code in question does not align with Sarawak’s administrative culture or the everyday operations of its government offices. He noted that the directive originates from the federal agency itself, not from the Sarawak government, and that Sarawak is home to 34 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, daily wear, and cultural norms that differ markedly from those in other regions of Malaysia.
“Federal agencies operating in Sarawak must fully understand and respect the diversity of our cultural and social context,” he said.
Ting pointed out that for many decades—long before Malaysia’s formation on September 16, 1963—Sarawakians have not been denied access to government premises due to clothing choices. He highlighted that Sarawakians have long lived in harmony, with broad acceptance and mutual respect among all 34 ethnic groups, a social fabric he believes should not be disrupted by externally imposed standards that fail to reflect local realities.
Acknowledging that dressing appropriately in government spaces is basic courtesy, Ting noted that most people visit these agencies out of necessity. “Denying entry based solely on attire disrupts their routines and runs counter to the principle of people-friendly public service,” he argued, adding that public services should prioritize practicality rather than erect unnecessary barriers.
Ting urged federal agencies operating in Sarawak to tailor regulations to local realities instead of importing West Malaysian practices wholesale. He urged that any dress code must honor Sarawak’s cultural context and daily norms and should not be enforced rigidly.
Sarawakians interacting with federal agencies deserve fair, professional, and respectful treatment. SUPP will continue monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant parties to ensure public service delivery remains effective and people-oriented, Ting concluded.
