In a decisive move, Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ) Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has addressed the concerns surrounding Johor’s weekend shift, advising those displeased with the new arrangement to consider moving to other states. The state's decision to revert its weekend holidays to Saturday and Sunday, effective January 1, 2025, has stirred conversations, particularly among groups with religious or political affiliations.
This change comes after a decade of observing Fridays and Saturdays as weekends, which began in 2014. TMJ announced the reversal of the weekend schedule on October 7, emphasizing that the decision followed extensive studies and consultations with key stakeholders, including the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ) and government bodies. Johor’s royal family, along with Sultan Ibrahim, gave their blessing to the change, aiming to cater to the growing demand from Johor citizens for more family time, aligning with broader economic benefits expected from ongoing development projects.
While many welcomed the decision, some individuals, particularly those aligned with political or religious groups, voiced their dissatisfaction. Critics argue that Friday is more suitable as a rest day, allowing time for Friday prayers and other religious activities. Tunku Ismail, however, was quick to respond to these concerns. In a post on his official social media accounts, TMJ suggested that anyone unhappy with the changes is free to relocate to states like Terengganu, Kelantan, or Kedah, where Friday-Saturday weekends are still observed.
TMJ’s response appears to be directed at politicians and activists who have politicized the weekend change. Among the vocal critics is Dr. Mohd Mazri Yahya, deputy commissioner of Johor PAS, who described Saturday-Sunday weekends as a colonial legacy. Similarly, Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim expressed concerns about the move. Despite these criticisms, many in the private sector have shown support for the shift. Parents, in particular, have praised the change, as the current Friday-Saturday weekend structure has resulted in complications—such as children missing school on Sundays due to family commitments or fatigue. This absenteeism issue has been a source of frustration for many families, and TMJ's announcement has been widely seen as a solution to this growing problem.
TMJ’s comments also pointed to the larger economic picture. By aligning Johor’s weekends with the national standard of Saturday and Sunday, the state anticipates better coordination with business operations across the country and internationally. Development projects and investment opportunities are expected to benefit from this alignment, enhancing Johor's economic potential.
However, for some, the decision is not just about convenience. Religious groups, particularly those who emphasize the importance of Friday for spiritual gatherings, view the change as a step away from traditional values. As Johor’s new weekend schedule draws nearer, the debate continues, underscoring the complexities of balancing cultural, religious, and economic priorities in a diverse society.
Ultimately, TMJ’s firm stance on the matter, coupled with the support of Johor’s royal leadership, suggests that the decision is final. For those unwilling to adapt, TMJ's message is clear: other states await.
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