Do you ever feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day for both work and personal life? Well, you’re not alone. A recent study ranked Malaysia 59th out of 60 countries in terms of work-life balance. That means we have one of the lowest scores in the world! Let’s dive deeper and see what this means for Malaysian workers.

Long Hours, Short Breaks

The study looked at factors like average workweek, annual leave allowance, and overall worker happiness. The results weren’t ideal. Malaysians clock in an average of 40.8 hours per week, which is quite high. On the flip side, we only get around 16 days of annual leave on average. That translates to less time to recharge and spend with loved ones.

What’s Behind The Numbers?

Image via HRM Asia

There are several reasons why Malaysia might score low on work-life balance. A strong work ethic and cultural emphasis on long hours can play a role. Additionally, some workplaces might be understaffed, leading to heavier workloads for existing employees. Economic pressures and a relatively low minimum wage can also contribute to the issue.

Are There Improvements?

Image via Standard Insights

The good news is that the government is aware of the problem. They’ve recently taken steps to create a more balanced work environment. This includes ratifying international labor agreements and implementing stricter regulations on working hours. Additionally, some companies are starting to recognise the importance of employee well-being and are offering flexible work arrangements.

While change takes time, there are things you can do to improve your own work-life balance. Talk to your employer about flexible work options or setting clearer boundaries between work and personal life. Disconnecting after work hours and taking advantage of your vacation days are also crucial. Remember, a happy and healthy employee is a productive employee!

This ranking serves as a wake-up call. By working together, employees, employers, and the government can create a work environment that fosters both productivity and personal well-being for Malaysians.