By Ma Chee Seng, Annabell Naja Tommy & Margaret Ringgit
KUCHING: Should we work five days a week or have an additional day’s rest? People seem divided over the issue but there appears to be a leaning towards working four days instead.
They argue that employees deserve three days of rest, pointing out that it is important to maintain one’s physical, emotional and mental stability.
Foreign countries such as Iceland experimented with flexible work schedules during the year 2015 to 2019, and the results were encouraging as productivity increased and mental health improved.
However, on the other hand, some employees disagreed with four days a week of work, preferring to work five days a week.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to some oand here is what they have to say.
Traci Tay, 42, sustainability executive
“I believe the four days a week of work is applicable. Thus, I agree to the four day work flexibility because of mental health concerns. Health consciousness matures as we grow older and our well being is more important.”
Wu Xu Chu, 36, quantity surveyor
“For me, I do agree with the four days work and three days off . Especially with the pressures faced today, I believe that everyone deserves three days off to actually recover from exhaustion.”
Alex Mclean, 34, general clerk
“I agree that the four days work and three days off should be implemented. Other countries such as New Zealand conducted the trial and it showed improved productivity too.”
Norliza Jau, 40, government servant
“I think normal working days are more practical compared to only a four-day work week. Malaysians are more familiar with the normal working day that is from Monday to Friday. Also, if we implement a four-day work week, it would raise concerns such as employee performance and productivity.”
Liong Chai Ling, 38, private sector worker
“I opt for a normal working day because working five days in a week is more suited to our routine. If we were to work four days in a week, I think it would consume more working hours.”
Milla Unchu, 49, housekeeper
“I strongly agree with working four days a week. If the salary is not affected, then it should not be an issue. If I work four days a week, I may feel less tired.”
Fantaghiro Vatican Cassvan, 25, sales assistant
“I agree if employees are given four days of work in a week as this can reduce stress. In addition, employees will also have enough time to spend with their families. They can also get enough rest before going to work the next day. In addition, employees should be given enough leave so that they work more enthusiastically and are not under pressure.”
Gan Bee Yong, 40, clerk
“I strongly agree to working four days. My reason is that it allows employees to relax their mind and body. But again, it depends on the situation, if working four days but getting less pay, then it is not workable. There must be balance because of the current economy and increase in prices of goods.”
