PETALING JAYA: Four days of annual leave can turn the end of this month into a 10-day break for some, thanks to two public holidays.
Workers can get a 10-day break from this Saturday until the following Monday if they take four days of leave, due to Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday falling on Aug 25 and National Day on Aug 31.
The extra days off have allowed some Malaysians to slow down, take short trips with their family, spend time with loved ones and recharge without having to splurge on an expensive holiday.
Small business owner Nurul Jannah Azizon, 39, plans to keep her holiday simple, spending most of the break with her family and perhaps making a few short outings.
“I think this time I will keep things simple. We can rest at home, spend time together and maybe take the children somewhere nearby for a day.”
Online seller Shafiqah Samsuri, 33, plans to use the break to visit relatives and take her family on a few day trips.
“I would rather use the extra time to visit family and take the children somewhere we have not been before. It is nice to have enough time to do these things without rushing.”
Shafiqah said the longer break made it easier to catch up with relatives and fit in several activities over a few days.
Private-sector executive Fazwin Azlan, 32, said she planned to spend part of the break at home, catching up on sleep and spending more time with her parents and children.
“Sometimes what I really need is a few quiet days without rushing anywhere.
“I can rest properly, spend time with my family and catch up on things I have been putting aside,” she said.
If she decides to take a short break, Fazwin said Kuala Sepetang in Perak would be among her choices because it offers a quieter setting, nature and local food without requiring a long journey.
“I like places where you can slow down and enjoy the surroundings. Kuala Sepetang has the mangroves, seafood and a more laid-back atmosphere, so it would be nice for a short family trip.”
Food enthusiast Jamaludin Kamaruddin, 36, plans to use some of his time off for food trips, visiting smaller towns and trying local dishes without necessarily staying overnight.
“I like the idea of taking a day trip, trying something different and coming home at night. You still get to enjoy the break without spending too much.”
Freelance photographer Mohd Azim Abdul Rahman, 42, plans to spend several days exploring nearby locations with his camera while keeping the rest of the time for himself and his family.
“I want to use some of the time to look for places that I have never photographed before.
“There are probably many interesting places nearby that I have yet to discover,” he said, adding that he also planned to spend some days at home and use the break to step away from his usual routine.
“Whether you travel or stay home, the best thing about a long break is having the time to do things at your own pace,” he said.
