Daily HR News 5.12.2024
Employers encouraged to apply flexible working arrangements at workplace: HR Minister
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong encouraged employers to adopt flexible working arrangements (FWA) to boost talent retention, productivity, and reduce costs. FWAs also address traffic congestion and employee stress. Nearly 3,000 companies and 50,000 employees attended TalentCorp workshops. Employers must respond to FWA requests within 60 days under Sections 60P and 60Q of the Employment Act 1955.
Source: https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/employers-encouraged-to-apply-flexible-working-arrangements-at-workplace-hr-minister-EJ13385450
Govt studying best mechanism for implementation of foreign workers’ EPF contribution - Finance Ministry
The government is studying the best mechanism for foreign workers' EPF contributions, engaging stakeholders to ensure holistic policies. This initiative aligns with ILO standards, promoting fairness and social protection for all workers, including non-citizens. Phased implementation aims to enhance retirement savings, reduce dependence on foreign labor, and boost global competitiveness, as announced in Budget 2025 by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Source: https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/govt-studying-best-mechanism-for-implementation-of-foreign-workers-epf-contribution-finance-ministry-GJ13384121
HR Minister: Govt to offer additional tax deductions for firms adopting flexible work arrangements
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim announced additional tax deductions for companies adopting Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs), as unveiled in Budget 2025. The initiative aims to foster better work-life balance, progressive workplaces, and address urban traffic congestion in areas like Penang, Klang Valley, and Johor Bahru. Over 3,000 companies have attended workshops, with TalentCorp studying FWAs' impact over the next six months.
Source: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/12/05/hr-minister-govt-to-offer-additional-tax-deductions-for-firms-adopting-flexible-work-arrangements/158987
Tax relief and financial aid for employers supporting apprenticeship programmes
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad announced tax reductions and HRD Corp’s Industrial Training Scheme (ITS) to ease financial burdens for employers paying minimum wages to contract apprentices. As of November 2024, RM20.4 million supported 10,766 training placements. The National Wages Consultative Council’s study led to expanding minimum wage coverage for apprentices, aligning with Employment Act definitions.
Source: https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/tax-relief-and-financial-aid-for-employers-supporting-apprenticeship-programmes-KJ13388310
Fomema Offers 30-day Extension For Affected Employers, Service Providers
Fomema Sdn Bhd (Fomema) is providing relief assistance to support employers of foreign workers and service providers impacted by the floods through its Fomema Flood Relief Programme (FRP). Fomema is providing additional 30-day extension for medical forms and online result transmission for registrations and forms dated between 15 November 2024 and 14 January 2025 in flood-affected areas across Malaysia.
Source: https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2371430
HR Minister: Malaysia employs 2.47 million low-skilled foreign workers, aims to cap their share at 15pc of total workforce
Malaysia employs 2.47 million low-skilled foreign workers, comprising 15% of the workforce, aligning with the 12th Malaysia Plan's ceiling limit. To reduce dependency, the government froze new foreign worker approvals in 2023 and will implement a multi-tier levy by 2025. Efforts include promoting TVET programs, revising minimum wages, and transitioning industries to high-value operations.
Source: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/12/05/hr-minister-malaysia-employs-247-million-low-skilled-foreign-workers-aims-to-cap-their-share-at-15pc-of-total-workforce/158995