The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) has encouraged employers to grant flexibility to employees regarding the implementation of an additional public holiday in conjunction with Aidilfitri, as announced earlier by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In a statement issued today (15 March), KESUMA said the additional holiday is in line with provisions under the Public Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369), which empowers the government to declare public holidays.
Human resources minister datuk seri r. Ramanan
According to the ministry, the declared additional holiday qualifies as a public holiday applicable to private sector employees, subject to Section 60D of the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265).
“Based on these provisions, employers may replace the declared public holiday with another day as a paid public holiday for employees,” the statement said.
KESUMA stressed that employers must inform employees of the arrangements for the additional holiday, whether it is granted on the officially declared date or substituted with another suitable day.
The ministry added that if employees are required to work on the declared public holiday, they are entitled to public holiday pay rates as stipulated under the Employment Act 1955.
For illustration purposes only
Employers urged to grant additional holiday
In this regard, KESUMA called on employers to consider granting the additional holiday as part of compassionate employment practices that support work-life balance.
“This measure is hoped to provide employees with the opportunity to celebrate Aidilfitri in an atmosphere of togetherness, well-being and harmony with their families,” the statement said.
The ministry further encouraged employers and employees to engage in constructive discussions to ensure business operations continue smoothly, while still allowing employees to celebrate Aidilfitri in a meaningful way.
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Also read: “A token of appreciation for Malaysians’ hard work” – PMX Announces One-Day Additional Raya Holiday
