It’s common courtesy to dress appropriately when dining out, especially when it’s a fancy establishment. Malaysia is no exception. A restaurant’s dress code is usually reflective of its ambiance and brand.
A few days ago, a local man named Ye (transliteration) brought his family of six to enjoy a meal at a fine dining restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. However, Ye’s friend and the father were prohibited from entering the restaurant because they were in shorts.
According to China Press, they had purchased RM1000 worth of vouchers online to dine at Atmosphere 360, the high-class revolving restaurant in KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur). Upon entering the restaurant, a staff stopped the men from entering because their attire did not conform to the required dress code.
The staff requested for them to wrap a sarong around their waist to cover their knee-length shorts, and this angered the men. “My friend found the sarong to be unsightly and couldn’t believe that he had spent over RM1,000 only to end up feeling angered. At that moment, he wanted a refund but it wasn’t allowed, leaving him and his father with no choice but to put on the sarong,” Ye recalled.
On Atmosphere 360’s official website, it is stated that their dress code is either smart casual or easy-glam. They emphasised that no shorts and slippers are allowed. This is to express respect for the beautiful dining environment. They also warned that the management have the rights to refuse entry to those not adhering to the dress code.
In regards to this issue, netizens have split opinions. Some netizens think that it is common respect for one adhere to the dress code, no matter the occasion. Whereas, some said that they would have just turned around and left if they were ‘forced’ to wear a sarong. There were also some netizens commenting that a sarong is not fitting to the dress code as well.
- “But it’s okay to wear a sarong?”
- “I’m sure they would’ve mentioned the dress code when you purchased the ticket.”
- “You should dress for the occasion, respecting the occasion means that you’re respecting yourself.”
- “If it was me, I would’ve just gone home.”
- “Sarong would not make it any more elegant.”
- “How is wearing a sarong more appropriate?!”
What would you have done if you were in the same situation?
Source: China Press
This article is contributed by Amelia Er.
