Follow enforcement of the 45-hour work week, says HR Minister to employers

BATU GAJAH: The 45-hour work week should be respected and followed, says the Human Resources Minister.

"The amendment was made last year and enforced early this year. I urge all employers to adhere to the law as approved. This is important," said V. Sivakumar.

"We must respect the law for the benefit of all," he added at a press conference after opening the MYFutureJobs Career Fair and Housewife Social Security Scheme here on Saturday (feb 25).

Sivakumar said it is important for employers to adhere to the laws of the country, including the Employment Act.

"Workers want their employers to adhere to the law, including the Act," he added.

The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) had reportedly claimed that it has received complaints of employers failing to abide by the amendments to the Employment Act since its implementation on Jan 1.

Among the amendments made and enforced included reducing working hours from 48 to 45 hours per week, and increasing maternity leave from 60 days to 98 days and paternity leave from three days to seven days.