Of World Cup fever and work ethics

KUALA LUMPUR: Cuepacs has advised civil servants to ensure that they are fit to work as some may stay up till the wee hours to catch the live telecast of FIFA World Cup matches.

Cuepacs president Azih Muda said those who want to watch the matches, many of which will be after 3am, should get some sleep earlier in the evening.

He said Muslims would begin their fasting at the end of this month.

“Usually, we will be tired during the fasting month because we have to wake up early for the ‘sahur’ meal,” he said, adding that keeping awake throughout the night would make one more lethargic.

Azih, who is a fan of the Brazilian team, said it was important to avoid getting complaints from customers or clients.

“Our duty as civil servants is to provide the best service and to ensure that our productivity is at the optimum,” he added.

The World Cup is staged in Brazil from June 12 to July 13. The opening match kicks off between Brazil and Croatia at 5pm (4am on June 13 in Malaysia).

Most of the matches will be played at 3am or 6am Malaysian time.

Malaysian Employers Federation council member Michael Chiam said employees should avoid “mischievous misconducts” by taking medical or emergency leave unnecessarily as it would hamper productivity.

“If you want to take annual leave during the World Cup season, that is okay because it is your right and you are entitled to it.

“However, plan ahead if you wish to do so and follow the necessary procedures set by the company,” he said.

Malaysian Trade Union Congress president Mohd Khalid Atan said: “Some people are football enthusiasts, so they will try to make excuses especially when the World Cup season comes, but they must remember their priorities.”