“Better work-life harmony” – Employees in SG Can Now Apply to WFH & Have a 4-Day Work Week

Work from home. Those who have the flexibility to work at the desk from the comfort of their own homes will understand how much it helps mentally and emotionally. 

WFH is still a matter of debate, especially in terms of productivity. Employees in Singapore, however, can now apply for NOT ONLY remote working but also a 4-day work week. This is mentioned in the new guidelines of the Tripartite Alliance for Fair & Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) which will come into effect on December 1, as announced by Gan Siow Huang, the Minister of State for Manpower of Singapore on her FB post.

Employees are also given the right to apply for a more flexible work location by the end of the year. Although not mandatory, employers must provide a formal process that allows employees to apply for flexible work schedules.

You can apply BUT you MIGHT get rejected

As good as it sounds, employers in SG who apply for flexible working hours should not expect their applications to be approved at all times.

The employers have all rights to reject the application, however, reasonable excuses must be provided.

For illustration purposes only

“For example, the application can be rejected if it causes operating costs to increase, productivity to drop sharply or it cannot be carried out due to the nature of one job.”

And here’s 1 reason that employers cannot use to reject the leniency – ‘WFH is not traditionally practised by the workplace’.

If the employer refuses to comply with the set guidelines, they can be warned and will be called to meet with TAFEP implementers.

According to Gan, this leniency is implemented for a reason – better work-life harmony.

“Our vision is to build inclusive and productive workplaces where workers can give their best at work and at home, and businesses are able to harness the full potential of our local workforce.”

We hope those who get to work remotely will not abuse the leniency, and use the opportunity to give their best even at home (or anywhere they work from)! Malaysian employers, what say you?

Also read: Steven Sim Reminds M’sians About Availability of Flexible Working Hours in Malaysia