Once amendments to the Employment Act 1955 comes into effect beginning 1 September, employees in Malaysia can apply opt for a Flexible Working Arrangement (FWA) from their employers.
However, workers will have to submit a written application to their respective companies stating the changes which may include working hours, working days, and location of work. And the employer must reply before FWA can start.
This was stated by Deputy Minister of Human Resources Datuk Awang Hashim during an event yesterday, “When the application is made, the employer must give an answer to the employee in writing whether to agree or reject the application within 60 days and must give reasons why the application was rejected.”
The amendment includes extension of maternity leave, introduction of a paternity leave, and reduction of maximum total of weekly work hours from the current 48 to 45.
Other details in the amendment include settling disputes between employee and employer in regards to discrimination; and if convicted the latter could be liable to a fine up to RM50,000 (RM10,000 previously). Refusal to comply and make payment will incur additional fine of RM1,000 daily (from RM100 previously).
During the event, the deputy minister added that a study had also been conducted on a four-day working week. “Studies are still being conducted and so far, we have seen that the four working days have not reduced employee productivity. If there are employers who are affected, we will take into account the study to discuss further in the ministry,” he said.
