Experts criticise employer opposition to flexible work as outdated, arguing it could ease the fuel cost burden for millions of commuters and boost productivity.
PETALING JAYA: Opposition from employers and policymakers to flexible working arrangements reveals an outdated approach to work, experts said, even as soaring petrol prices squeeze millions of Malaysian commuters.
An employers’ federation recently claimed that a work-from-home (WFH) policy would have minimal impact on national fuel consumption.
It alleged that WFH is often impractical for sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, construction and hospitality, in which on-site staff are essential.
Economist Geoffrey Williams strongly rejected the view.
“This reflects very old-style approaches to work and management, which are holding back innovation, agility and productivity.”
He added that fuel savings from WFH could be substantial, benefiting about 9.5 million public and private sector employees, while another 3.3 million own-account workers already enjoy flexible schedules.
“I estimate 70% to 80% of formal sector jobs could benefit from WFH or other flexible (policies), such as a four-day work week.”
He said the current pressure on petrol costs could act as a catalyst for reforms that reduce fuel consumption, save subsidies, lessen environmental impact and benefit millions of workers.
He also said beyond fuel savings, flexible working could boost productivity by focusing on outcomes rather than hours spent in the office.
“It could also stimulate innovation and improve business models by emphasising delivery in work rather than time in work,” he said, highlighting links to better work-life balance, mental and physical health, and overall business performance.
The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) echoed concerns over rising commuting costs.
Its secretary-general Kamarul Baharin Mansor said MTUC supports WFH if fuel prices remain unchecked, while acknowledging that some sectors cannot implement it.
“An increase in petrol prices means higher commuting costs for workers travelling to and from work.”
“For manufacturing, cleaning and other sectors that require physical presence, remote work is not possible. In these cases, companies should provide alternative support, such as transport allowances or shuttle services.”
He cautioned against rushed WFH implementations, which could disrupt daily routines, such as managing children’s schooling.
Kamarul emphasised the importance of maintaining fuel subsidies to ease the burden on workers.