The cabinet has instructed the government chief secretary to review the dress code of government agencies that has been much criticised by the public.

According to a Sin Chew Daily report, the cabinet opined that the members of the public going to government agencies counters are unlikely to be scantily dressed.

But even if they wore shorts, short sleeves or skirts above the knees, they should be allowed to enter government agencies for general matters.

However, if they want to visit officers or have an appoinment, they will need to dress appropriately.

The report quoted Minister of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Abdul Rahman Dahlan (photo) who disclosed that the cabinet had discussed the dress code issue today.

He said the cabinet had agreed that a dress code is necessary but shouldn't be too strict in implemention.

"The cabinet thinks that there should not be a dress code at counters of government agencies, unless the customers show up only in underwear. That would be too much, and will certainly will not be accepted.

"Malaysians like to dress casually - many like shorts, t-shirts or miniskirts. Let’s use common sense - please-lah, it shouldn't be an issue."

He added he believed that members of the public being forced to wear a sarong in order to enter government agencies will not happen again in the future.