MEF Supports WFH For ASEAN Summit, Urges Careful Rollout
By Thivyamalini Ramalu
PUTRAJAYA, May 21 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) agrees with the government's move to allow employees in the public sector to work from home (WFH) during the ASEAN Summit but suggested that the implementation be thoroughly considered.
MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the measure is important to ensure that WFH does not negatively affect business productivity, especially for companies operating in areas involved in the high-profile event.
'MEF believes WFH can help ease traffic congestion during the event, but its implementation must be carefully planned. Cooperation between the government, employers, employees or unions is essential to ensure a balanced and effective approach.
'Before WFH is implemented, it is crucial to hold engagement sessions with stakeholders, particularly private businesses and local authorities, to ensure the initiative does not adversely affect productivity for those impacted during the ASEAN Summit,' he told Bernama.
Syed Hussain said, however, the WFH implementation in the private sector could face challenges as not all employers have efficient, flexible work management systems.
'If businesses cannot operate physically, small and medium enterprises such as restaurants, transportation and nearby services may suffer losses. Therefore, WFH implementation must align with each company's capacity and needs, including in terms of technology, data security and employee performance monitoring,' he said.
He also said that the government's move to allow WFH during the summit reflects a prudent approach, showing that the government continues to function normally while temporarily adjusting to support the success of the international event.
'If implemented well, this WFH initiative could serve as a stepping stone for a broader hybrid work policy in the public sector. It aligns with global trends that recognise work-life balance and the use of technology to improve public service efficiency,' he said.
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