DAP MP moots change of dress code for civil servants

An MP from DAP today suggested a change in dress code for government servants in order to tackle the issue of climate change. 

Wong Shu Qi (PH-Kluang) said during the winding up debate on the royal address for the natural resources, environment and climate change ministry that the current dress code of a coat or blazer and necktie did not suit Malaysia's tropical climate. 

She said that the weather outdoors was generally very warm while inside the office, the temperature was cold. 

She added that civil servants would often leave the office as they were unable to withstand the cold, and would remove their ties and coats once they were outdoors. 

"When they enter the office, everyone wants to wear their blazers and neckties," she said. 

"And everyone asks for the temperature to be lowered because it's very hot outside. But this is not environmentally friendly as we need to use a lot of electricity in order to lower the office temperature. 

"This is why I am asking the government to lead in efforts to tackle the problem of climate change, by changing the dress code and making it more suitable."

Wong received no response from Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad while speaker Johari Abdul said the topic was better referred to him directly instead of being brought to Parliament.