Work-life balance is important for everyone. When employees feel they can handle both work and personal life, they are happier and do a better job. Employers in Malaysia can help with this, all while following the rules in the Employment Act 1955. Here’s how:
1. Let Employees Have Flexible Hours
Not everyone likes the 9-to-5 workday. Allowing flexible working hours means employees can start or end their day when it works best for them. As long as they work the right number of hours, it’s a win-win.
The Employment Act says employees should not work more than 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week. So, offering flexible times within these limits is a great way to help employees manage their personal commitments.
2. Offer Work-from-Home Options
During the pandemic, many companies learned that employees could work from home and still do their job well. Now, employers can make this a long-term option. Working from home, even a few days a week, can save time and reduce stress from commuting.
There aren’t specific rules about working from home in the Employment Act yet, but employers should make sure employees still get their rest days and don’t go over their working hour limits.
3. Provide More Leave Days
Giving employees enough leave is key to work-life balance. The law says that employees must get at least 8 days of annual leave if they have worked less than 2 years. This number goes up with longer service. Employers can offer extra leave or allow unpaid leave for personal matters, mental health, or family emergencies.
It’s also important to follow the rule of 98 days of paid maternity leave for mothers, and 7 days for paid paternity leave. But, if your resources allows for more, why hold back?
4. Limit Overtime
Overtime can be tiring. While it’s sometimes necessary, it’s important not to rely on it too much. Employees who work overtime must be paid 1.5 times their usual rate. But the law says they should not work more than 104 overtime hours in a month.
To help employees avoid working too much, manage workloads better and set realistic deadlines. This way, employees can finish their work during regular hours and won’t need to stay late.
5. Support Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Employers can help by offering things like counseling services or stress management programs. Employees who feel supported in their mental health will be more focused and productive.
Encouraging employees to take their leave and fully rest helps them come back to work feeling refreshed.
6. Encourage Breaks
Employees need breaks during the workday to stay fresh. The law says that if an employee works more than 5 hours straight, they must take at least a 30-minute break. Encourage your team to step away from their desks for lunch or short breaks. This helps them recharge and stay productive.
7. Promote Vacation Time
Some employees hesitate to take all their vacation days. Employers can change this by encouraging them to use their time off. Taking a proper break helps employees return to work with more energy. Some companies also offer wellness days or mental health days to further promote balance.
Final Thoughts
Work-life balance benefits everyone. Employees who feel they have control over their work and life are happier, healthier, and do better work. By offering flexible hours, supporting mental health, and following Malaysia’s Employment Act 1955, employers can create a positive workplace where employees can thrive.