The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has claimed that sick employees cost employers an estimated RM5.05 billion last year. Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman elaborated that this is based on the total cost involved for wages of employees on sick leave, outpatient clinical costs and replacement costs for employees on sick leave based on overtime payment.
As reported by The Star, Syed Hussain suggested for employees in Malaysia that took excessive sick leaves to be subjected to more severe punishments, including dismissal. He clarified that while some employers provide clear sick leave policies and communicate them to employees, the consequences for workers who take excessive sick leave should be clearly stated.
The MEF president stressed that sick leave is costly to businesses and would hinder companies from reaching their full potential. He also suggested that employers offer incentives for employees to not take sick leave, including giving recognition to those with minimum sick leave or rewarding them with a payment equal to the unused sick days.
So, what do you guys think of the statement by Syed Hussain? Do you agree with his suggestions? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
