Dress code shows MDIS is about learning

I REFER to the letter last Friday, 'Ill-conceived: MDIS dress code crackdown' by Mr Teng Kie Zin. The institute has introduced the dress code policy to reiterate that this is an institution for learning. It is imperative that there is a basic protocol for proper dressing within the school compound.

First, the objective of the student should be to study and not to display distasteful dressing. Students who genuinely join us to receive a quality education may be affected by this. Therefore, we need to enforce this policy to ensure a proper dress code is adhered to. We ask only for basic decent dressing which is within reasonable limits.

Second, a dress code is an important part of an individual's personal grooming and presentation. We believe it is at school that such values of proper dressing should be taught so students can be prepared when they enter the corporate world. It is also important to highlight to students that proper dressing is a sign of respect to lecturers, fellow students and the institute.

Dress code and academics are not related. There is an appropriate dress code for every occasion, be it going to the beach or a party. The institute wants to ensure and protect the image of the school. Students are encouraged to dress properly to uphold the image and reputation of the institute.

Tan Gek Khim (Ms)
Senior Director
MDIS

---

Banning singlets, shorts

'MDIS should be commended.'

MR SIMON NG YAP PENG: 'I disagree with Mr Teng Kie Zin's letter last Friday, 'Ill- conceived: MDIS dress code crackdown', that tertiary students should be allowed to wear singlets and shorts to attend classes. MDIS, like many other tertiary institutions, is right to protect the institution's brand name and enhance its good image by enforcing the dress code.'

Dress-free advantage?

'SMU students are some of the most extroverted and creative.'

MR SUDHIR THOMAS VADAIKETH: 'I was amused to read in last Thursday's report ('Official dress codes at other institutions') that of all Singapore's tertiary institutions, only SMU has no dress code. From my limited interactions with them, SMU students are also some of the most extroverted and creative. I wonder if there isn't a correlation?'