SUPP slams LHDN dress code as ‘insensitive’ to Sarawak culture

MIRI (Dec 3): The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) has criticised the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) for enforcing strict dress code requirements at its Miri Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) office, calling it an unwelcome federal imposition on Sarawakians.

SUPP secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting said federal agencies operating in Sarawak must respect the state’s multicultural character and avoid rigid rules that hinder public service.

“We do not welcome this form of federal imposition on the people of Sarawak. We strongly urge the Inland Revenue Board to revert to the previous practice, which has never caused any problem throughout our history,” the Piasau assemblyman said in a statement.

Ting added that strict dress code requirements do not align with the administrative culture or daily realities of Sarawak government agencies, stressing that the dress code is an internal directive of the federal agency, not a Sarawak government policy.

He pointed out that Sarawak is home to 34 ethnic groups with unique lifestyles, daily attire, and cultural backgrounds that differ significantly from other parts of Malaysia.

“Federal agencies operating in Sarawak must fully understand and respect the diversity of Sarawak’s cultural and social context,” he said.

Ting highlighted that for decades—even before the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963—Sarawakians have never been denied entry to government premises because of what they wear.

“Our society has always lived in peace and harmony, with total acceptance and deep mutual respect among all 34 ethnic groups. This long-standing social fabric should never be disrupted by externally imposed standards that do not reflect our lived realities,” he stressed.

While acknowledging that dressing appropriately in government offices is basic courtesy, Ting said most people visit these agencies out of necessity.

“Denying entry solely based on attire disrupts their work and personal obligations and contradicts the principle of people-friendly public service,” he said, adding that public service should prioritise convenience rather than create unnecessary obstacles.

He urged federal agencies in Sarawak to adopt regulations sensitive to local realities rather than applying West Malaysian practices wholesale.

“Any dress code must respect Sarawak’s cultural context and daily norms and should not be enforced rigidly.

“Sarawakians engaging with federal agencies deserve to be treated fairly, professionally, and with respect.

SUPP will continue to monitor the situation and engage with relevant parties to ensure public service delivery remains effective and people-oriented,” Ting added.