The dress code went viral on social media today after members of the public expressed surprise that they would be prohibited from wearing shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops, torn jeans or slippers when at the hospital.

Examples of appropriate clothing such as long pants, shoes and skirts below the knee level were also provided.

“QEH’s director apologises for any confusion which may have arisen following instructions on dress code for the public or the hospital’s customers,” the hospital said in a post on its Facebook page.

“All members of the public or customers who deal with QEH are encouraged to dress modestly, especially when dealing with the QEH’s management division. Any inconvenience is greatly regretted,” the statement added.

When contacted, Sabah health department director Dr Christina Rundi confirmed that the hospital had apologised for the dress code and had withdrawn it.