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A woman's complaint about being denied entry into Cyberjaya Hospital for wearing a sleeveless dress has gone viral, prompting the hospital to issue a public clarification
The incident took place on Sunday, 21 September.
In her post, the woman — who had travelled from Port Dickson — claimed two female security guards stopped her at the hospital entrance and told her that her "arms were showing", which they said "violated" the hospital's dress code.
"I was taken aback by this enforcement, as I was dressed modestly and appropriately," she wrote.
She described the policy as "deeply troubling" and "arguably discriminatory", adding that it raises serious concerns about inclusivity, accessibility, and gender bias.
She argued that hospitals are essential services, not religious spaces, and that access to healthcare should not be subject to arbitrary standards of attire.
She eventually insisted on entering, explaining that she had travelled from Port Dickson to visit her brother. She was allowed in, but claimed she was only given five minutes with him.
Cyberjaya Hospital has since issued a statement, clarifying that visitor dress codes are standard practice at most public health facilities
In the statement yesterday, 1 October, the hospital explained that the guidelines aim to maintain a "polite and conducive environment" for patients, staff, and visitors.
It also denied that the woman was barred, saying she was only "advised" to comply with the guidelines but was ultimately allowed to visit at the hospital's discretion.
The hospital also emphasised that patients seeking treatment are exempt from the dress code and will always receive care.
"Cyberjaya Hospital would like to emphasise that for patients who come for treatment, they will be accepted in any situation, especially during emergencies. Patients are exempt from the dress code and are never denied the right to receive treatment," read the statement.
However, the hospital's statement did not mention the five-minute limit cited by the woman
Her complaint has since drawn public attention, even reaching Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Speaking to the media, Dr Dzulkefly urged discretion and clear communication in such situations, stressing that while guidelines are in place, the priority should be allowing visitors to see their loved ones without unnecessary obstacles.
"I do not want this matter to be blown out of proportion. We do have guidelines, but what is more important is discretion and good communication," he said.
