With Chinese New Year behind us, Puasa Month is fast approaching. Many HR department will soon announce that employees who opt out of their lunch break can leave earlier to prepare for breaking their fast. But what does labour law say about this?
Under Section 60A(1) of the Employment Act 1955, employees working five consecutive hours are entitled to a minimum 30-minute break. This law doesn’t specifically address Puasa month break hours. What does means is that while employers cannot compel employees to skip their break, they can offer it as an option.
However, it’s important to note that the ‘leave office earlier for skipping break time’ policy is not a legal requirement. It’s a discretionary choice made by the company and typically extended to Muslim employees, though not all may be fasting.
So go ahead and offer this option. It’s unlikely anyone will lodge a complaint with JTK for allowing employees to leave early during Puasa Month. No worries.
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
