Starting immediately, Malaysia’s public sector employees can enjoy a more relaxed dress code — neckties are no longer required during office hours or official meetings. This update was confirmed through a circular dated Oct 31, 2025, signed by JPA director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
This move aligns with the Madani Government’s commitment to a more flexible, inclusive, and people-centric working culture introduced in November 2022. The new approach acknowledges Malaysia’s climate and the importance of energy efficiency as stated under the General Circular No. 2 of 2014. According to the directive, professionalism remains a priority — yet comfort and practicality will now play a greater role in daily work attire.
The circular also clarified that neckties will still be required for certain formal occasions, including official ceremonies involving foreign dignitaries, high-level international meetings, conferences, or special events. Ministries or departments may also require ties for specific functions, but such expectations must be clearly stated in invitations to avoid confusion.
With this change, the existing rule under Paragraph A.5 of the Human Resource Service Circular (MyPPSM) Section UP.7.2.3 regarding necktie requirements has officially been lifted from active enforcement.
