KUCHING: Workers everywhere, even in Malaysia, continue to hold the view that physical presence at the workplace is a must for productivity.
According to Swinburne University of Technology lecturer Donna Barclay Tan, working long hours at the office can be mentally and physically taxing for employees.
She said the average workweek in Malaysia is 48 hours, longer than the average workweek in other comparable nations.
MTUC Sarawak Chairman, Zaidi Nasar, foresees the four-day workweek as a future lifestyle but stresses the need for thorough studies considering cultural factors, technology and fair compensation.
“The fact is, who does not like to work four days a week? Whether you like it or not, it is predicted to become a lifestyle in the future.
“However, for starters, employers, at the very least, can introduce more policies on employee well-being,” he said today (Feb 28).
He said studies should be done in Malaysia on, among other things, economic sustainability, increase in productivity and well-being of employees.
MTUC Sarawak Secretary Andrew Lo, suggested a phased transition to initially a four-and-a-half-day workweek, citing practicality and potential productivity gains.
“We are in full agreement with the views which are progressive. The challenge is most Malaysians employers will be up in arms with their usual antiquated reasons,”he said.
“They were against the move from seven to six days, then to five and half (5 1/2) days and against the move for five days.
“While it is not practical for some sectors, it can work for others, I believe we can move to four and half days (4 1/2) for a start.
“As it stands not much work is done on Friday afternoons after prayers,”he added.
As Malaysians contemplate this shift, discussions revolve around economic sustainability, increased productivity, and employee well-being, highlighting the importance of careful consideration and readiness for potential changes in the work landscape.
