DATUK SERI (DR.) ENG WEI CHUN – DRESS SENSE
Malaysia is known for its rich multicultural heritage, which is beautifully reflected in its diverse clothing styles. Clothing, while fulfilling a basic human need, is also a powerful cultural symbol, reflecting the progress of society and the evolution of identity. Traditional attire includes the Batik of Malaysia, the Songket of the Malays, the Cheongsam of the Chinese, as well as the Saree and Punjabi Suit of the Indians. Each of these vividly reflects the nation’s cultural inclusiveness and diversity.
However, in public spaces, some Malaysians dress overly casually, such as wearing sleeveless and collarless T-shirts, shorts, and sandals in luxury malls. These practices have sparked debates about the nation’s image on the international stage. Such attire affects both personal and national professional image in a globalized world. This behavior is often excused as prioritizing comfort, but it disregards the importance of dressing appropriately, revealing a lack of respect for the occasion and others.
Many Malaysians may overlook the significance of appropriate dressing and its impact on how others perceive us. In this world, the most unfortunate people are not necessarily the poor but those unaware of themselves. Like the tale of “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” neglecting self-awareness can lead to misplaced priorities. We must not ignore the importance of attire. Personal clothing mirrors one’s character, mindset, and dignity, while collective attire reflects a society’s level of civilization and maturity.
Even in a tropical country like Malaysia, where the climate is hot and humid, respect for dress codes across different settings remains essential. Beaches, markets, luxury malls, hotels, religious sites, and government offices all have their own implicit dress codes. Dressing appropriately is a subtle yet profound virtue, while disregard for it can detract from the harmony of shared spaces. Recently, casual attire at formal occasions in Malaysia has become increasingly common. For example, at weddings and award ceremonies, guests may wear casual outfits instead of formal attire, and in business meetings, some employees show up in T-shirts, jeans, or even slippers. Although not widespread, such behavior in international work environments can be perceived as unprofessional. Casual dressing at a business meeting might signal a lack of professionalism, while inappropriate attire at a wedding could unintentionally offend the hosts. These incidents highlight a broader lack of awareness about occasion-specific dressing in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s education system and workplace culture offer limited guidance on formal attire, leaving many who have not received formal training on what constitutes appropriate dressing for different occasions. Social media trends often amplify the focus on personal style, leading younger generations to prioritize individuality over situational appropriateness. Some believe neatness suffices for most situations, but neatness is just a basic standard, whereas appropriateness is essential. This mindset needs to be more widely embraced in our country.
I have observed that Malaysia’s education system, from primary to tertiary education levels, lacks training in etiquette and civility. From an international perspective, a nation without proper etiquette cannot qualify as a developed country. In the workplace, personal image plays a critical role in career development. Different industries and organizations have varying standards for dress codes, and in some informal work environments, there are no explicit requirements. This ambiguity prevents people from distinguishing between formal and informal settings. Employees who dress appropriately are more likely to convey a professional and reliable image, which can positively impact promotions or networking. Conversely, casual attire might lead others to underestimate their capabilities. Besides that, excessively casual dressing may also be misconstrued as a lack of professionalism or respect for the occasion, undermining Malaysia’s international reputation.
To address these challenges, Ministry of Education could collaborate with media platforms to promote the importance of formal dressing. Initiatives might include workshops on traditional and modern attire, public campaigns explaining dress codes for various settings, and engaging content such as styling tips for formal occasions. For instance, a guide to men’s leather shoes could explain the occasions suited to Oxfords, Derbies, Loafers, and Monk Straps, paired with advice on matching colors with suits. Such efforts could elevate public awareness of style and etiquette. We can also instill dress etiquette within companies. Particularly in international organizations, implementing a unified dress code can help employees understand the requirements for formal occasions. When drafting employee handbooks, it’s important to balance comfort with professional image. For instance, business meetings could recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and formal leather shoes instead of T-shirts and sneakers.
In today’s globalized and multicultural world, Malaysia faces the challenge of balancing tradition with modernity and comfort with formality. Cultural and climate factors undoubtedly influence dressing habits, but these should not overshadow the need for appropriateness in formal settings. With better education and increased public awareness, Malaysians can confidently improve their dress sense for formal occasions. This evolution not only enhances individual competitiveness and image but also reflects the nation’s cultural pride, professional excellence, and global respect. Dressing appropriately is more than an expression of personal style, it reflects respect, professionalism, and identity. In formal settings, dressing with purpose communicates dignity and leaving a lasting impression that uplifts both personal and national stature.
This is not only a tribute to and continuation of traditional culture but also a proactive response to professional etiquette in the era of globalization.
Translated from original article source:
