Beri notis awal, berunding sebelum isytihar cuti khas, kata majikan

The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMBA) have urged the government to set a minimum notice period and engage in discussions with the industry before announcing any official public holiday leave in the future. The MEF's president, Syed Hussain Syed Husman, acknowledged the government's announcement of the September 1 public holiday but emphasized the need for responsible consideration of the potential impact on private sector operations.

He noted that scheduling for round-the-clock industries such as retail, logistics, healthcare and hotels is typically planned weeks or months in advance. Furthermore, businesses operating on the announced date would have to absorb additional costs, including overtime pay, bonuses and transportation expenses, as stipulated under Section 60D of the Employment Act.

Short notice leave arrangements disrupt workforce adjustment and can have a domino effect on sales targets and international delivery commitments. The MEF and FMBA are calling for responsible government action in advance of any official leave announcements, including the establishment of a reasonable minimum notice period and meaningful engagement with the private sector.