It’s been the talk of the town when a study revealed that Kuala Lumpur is the third most overworked city in the world in 2022. Numerous people both agreed and disagreed with this assertion.
Recently, Human Resources Deputy Minister Datuk Awang Hashim said the working hours for employees will be reduced from 48 hours to 45 hours per week. As changes to the Employment Act of 1955 take effect, this will begin on September 1st.
Datuk Awang Hashim said that the amendment to working hours will hopefully give employees more flexibility in their working hours and also hopes that by reducing the number of working hours per week, the welfare of employees can be shielded.
He did however emphasise that there is no plan for a four-day work week being engaged on by the government.
More flexible and sustainable working schedule will be implemented.
In addition to reduced working hours, other changes are being made to give Malaysians a more adaptable and sustainable work schedule. From the next month, Malaysian workers will also be able to request a more flexible work schedule, which will allow them to alter their workdays, hours, and workplace.
Awang said that the changes also create a new provision on flexible work arrangements, to allow employees to apply to employers to carry out work according to the suitability of working hours, working days, or workplaces, including working from home for emergency situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.
What do you think about the latest working hours flexibilisation announcement? Do you think that the reduction and the flexibility will benefit you? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
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