A Leave Carry Forward policy is not required by law in Malaysia.
But companies should seriously consider having one.
Annual leave is earned progressively, upon completion of each month of service.
Now look at the calendar.
Some festive seasons sit right at the front of the year, such as Chinese New Year, school holidays, and this year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
At that point, many employees simple haven’t earned enough leave yet.
So many are forced to take unpaid leave, or take leave in advance and feeling guilty about it. For those how still have to show up at work, physically they may be present, but mentally?
This is where the option of carrying forward leave helps.
It allows employees to use last year’s earned leave to manage early-year life events without stress, without financial penalty, and without awkward conversations.
It sends a message that the company designs policies with real human rhythm in mind and values employee wellbeing.
And practically speaking,, it also helps spread out leave usage instead of creating a year-end leave stampede.
Think about it.
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
