According to Penang Harmony Centre board member Datuk Seri Dr Anwar Fazal, wearing shorts to a hospital should not be considered “immoral” under Malaysia’s Rukun Negara. Fazal emphasized the importance of the preamble of the Rukun Negara, which includes points that embody Malaysia’s aspirations as a country that fosters unity, democracy, and a just society that values its diverse heritage and utilizes science and technology. The Rukun Negara, which means National Principles, was proclaimed by the Yang diPertuan Agong on the National Day of 1970 and includes the main pillars of belief in God, loyalty to king and country, upholding the Constitution, the rule of law, and the virtues of courtesy and morality.
Fazal called for more attention to be given to the real spirit of the full Rukun Negara and suggested the use of simple, light doctors’ coats with the word “visitor” on them as a way to address any discomfort people may feel about the attire of others. He emphasized the need for sensibility and pride in Malaysia as a caring, harmonious, and professional society. His comments come after a 72-year-old man was turned away from Hospital Seberang Jaya for wearing shorts.
The retired engineer, Lim Thean Heng, was denied entry to the hospital while wearing a t-shirt, shorts, and sports shoes. Hospital Seberang Jaya director Dr Saiful Azlan Sharif defended the dress code, citing the Rukun Negara’s fifth principle of courtesy and morality. However, state health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen expressed regret over the incident and promised measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Another incident occurred at the Kuala Selangor Municipal Council office when a man was given a sarong to wear before being allowed in. Selangor exco member in charge of local councils Datuk Ng Suee Lim stated that it was too extreme to order a taxpayer and a client to wear a sarong and that such incidents should not have taken place under their administration. He called for an investigation into whether the action was taken arbitrarily or upon instructions.
