A 47-year-old Malaysian woman, Zou Shaoqin, from the state of Perak, was stopped from renewing her passport at an immigration office -- because her pants were too short.

According to Malaysian media Sinchew, her attire had been deemed inappropriate by both the security personnel and the immigration officials.

She was then forced to make a trip to the nearest shopping centre to buy a new pair of pants to complete her application.

Forbidden from renewing her passport

Zou said she had been preparing to enter the immigration office at 9.50am on Sept. 4, when she was stopped by security personnel as her pants did not cover her calves.

Additionally, immigration officials also told her that they would not renew her passport.

In response, Zou pleaded with the staff to accommodate her, as she felt that her pants covered the entire length of her leg, save for a few inches.

However, the staff refused and told her that they could not relent due to the presence of surveillance cameras.

Told to go and buy a new pair of long pants or a sarong

Zou said that the staff refused to budge despite letting them know it took her more than half an hour to return home.

Instead, they replied she should go and buy a new pair of long pants or sarong before returning to the office.

Zou only completed the procedure to renew her passport more than three hours later, after 1pm, as a result.

Lodged a complaint afterwards

Zou subsequently lodged a complaint with Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) Teluk Intan Municipal Council chairman, Kong Sun Chin, and vice-chairman Lim Hong Ong.

Kong stated that when he visited the immigration office, he found that the clothing guide was unclear as it did not indicate that pants that completely covered the legs were required.

He also added that officials should not make things difficult for people and over-correct them.

Top image collage from Sinchew