The Ministry of Education (MoE) announced that school students will no longer have to wear a necktie, following its decision at the 2025 Special Professional Meeting on 8 December.
Dr. Mohd Azam Ahmad, Director-General of Education, issued the circular on 17 December.
However, the MoE clarified that the policy ensures schools cannot compel or pressure students to wear a necktie at school.
“One of the main factors behind the decision was the hot and humid local climates, which makes wearing a necktie daily uncomfortable for students.”
The Ministry also emphasised the importance of parents’ responsibility in providing their children’s school necessities ahead of the new academic session.
Why Going Necktie-Free Works?
Going necktie-free just makes sense. With the humid and hot weather, ditching the tie keeps students more comfortable every day.
On top of that, parents get a break on costs.
They no longer have to buy an extra uniform accessory. It can make a school prep got a whole lot easier.
“To ease this burden, the Ministry of Education considered the current needs of students before making this decision,” according to a statement posted on the ministry’s official website.
“In addition, the move aligns with the Ministry of Education’s efforts to reduce the financial burden on households, particularly in providing school supplies.”
Freedom Comes with a Price
Some netizens agree, and some disagree with the Ministry of Education’s decision to make neckties optional.
Critics argue that removing neckties could affect students’ overall appearance and sense of discipline in school.
As one netizen commented on Astro Awani’s post put it, “This will take away neatness and discipline.”
It reflects concerns that the change might impact traditional school standards.
Some parents and educators have also raised concerns that without neckties, students might develop a more casual attitude toward school uniforms, which could affect discipline over time.
Others worry that making neckties optional might erode the sense of formality and tradition that schools have long maintained.
Source: Astro Awani