JPA Daily Buzz - Edisi 9 2026

page 2 Beyond image and governance, safety and risk are aspects that are often overlooked. Slippers are not safety footwear. Office floors can be slippery, staircases can pose hazards, and daily movement in the workplace carries small risks that we tend to underestimate. When a slip, sprain, or fall occurs, the issue is no longer about slippers. It becomes a matter of workplace safety, incident reporting, and potential insurance implications. Within an organisation, what appears minor can quickly escalate when injury and liability are involved. The mention of insurance is not meant to alarm, but to serve as a reminder that organisations must manage risk responsibly. In risk management, action is taken before incidents occur not after. Wearing slippers in unsuitable areas increases the likelihood of accidents. When likelihood increases, so does organisational risk. In governance terms, this is known as a preventive control. In simple language, it means taking precautions before problems arise. So how should this be addressed in a mature and practical manner? The answer is not through blanket prohibitions. Instead, a balanced approach is needed. Slippers for ablution are a legitimate necessity. However, wearing slippers in workspaces, meeting rooms, customer areas, or official zones should be avoided. A simple habit such as keeping a pair of slippers specifically for ablution and changing back into appropriate footwear upon returning to work areas can make a meaningful difference. Ultimately, this discussion is not about footwear. It is about messaging. It is about culture. It is about standards. It is about how organisations like JPA safeguard their image and credibility not only through major initiatives, but through consistent everyday discipline. In the public service, we do not need to be overly rigid, but neither can we afford to be overly relaxed. Professionalism is not about perfection; it is about awareness. Slippers may be comfortable, but organisational image is a trust placed in all of us. Something worth reflecting on. Dr. Diyana Hassim Head of Corporate Communications Public Service Department