There must be flexibility on dress code

IT was quite a shock to learn that compliance with a dress code applied even in police stations. Does it mean that regardless of the seriousness of the cases faced by persons who want to file a police report, they cannot do so unless they are properly attired?

If this is the case, it means that those who wear shorts and sneakers for outdoor activities such as jogging or playing games will be barred from lodging reports when they are robbed or faced with threats that may result in physical harm to them.

The victims would have to go back to their homes and change into proper attire and only then can they be allowed to enter police stations. Strictness in ensuring compliance with the dress code will compromise the safety of persons in the event of an emergency. It could also help criminals target their potential victims.

That the dress code should be adhered to for scheduled appointments in government departments or agencies is accepted, but not for unexpected or urgent cases, especially in police stations where victims of crime can come in at any time.

I strongly support our former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan’s statement that the police should not be “chasing” away those who want to lodge a report as it is their duty to help the public.

CHONG HAI YONG

Penang