Malaysia’s work culture has come under scrutiny after a global survey on work-life balance ranked the country 59th out of 60, just a step above Nigeria. The survey, conducted by Remote, a global HR services company, assessed factors like work hours, leave allowances, and minimum wages, sparking a nationwide conversation: Are Malaysians truly overworked, or is this a case of misaligned global standards?
Hard Work vs. Overwork: A Perspective from Industry Leaders
Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai, President of the Malaysian Semiconductor Industry Association, is convinced that Malaysians’ hard work doesn’t automatically translate to overwork. According to Wong, Malaysia is on the brink of becoming a productive, globally competitive nation, and achieving this requires dedication. However, he emphasizes that this drive is distinct from burnout.
Wong explains that employers in Malaysia’s semiconductor sector comply with labor laws, including giving employees the option to work from home or adjust their hours where possible. "We’re committed to international working standards,” says Wong, noting that multinational companies in Malaysia adhere to guidelines set by the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA), an organization focused on protecting worker rights and well-being in the electronics supply chain. Companies that breach these standards risk being blacklisted or sanctioned.
Malaysia, Wong adds, has one of the world’s highest numbers of public holidays, making claims of overwork seem less applicable here. He challenges the idea that Malaysian workers lack adequate time off, arguing that global surveys often overlook cultural differences in defining “balance.”
Creating Happy Work Environments
Calvin Kwan, Northern Chairman of SME Association Malaysia, echoes Wong’s views. “Many Malaysian companies, even small and medium enterprises, are committed to creating happy and supportive work environments,” he explains. Kwan believes in fostering camaraderie among workers, which leads to better teamwork and productivity during high-demand periods. He also notes that employees today are well-versed in their rights and aren’t shy about advocating for themselves.
The Mental Health Perspective: When Balance Turns to Burnout
Yet, the story isn’t that simple for everyone. Dr. Prem Kumar Chandrasekaran, a consultant psychiatrist at Penang Adventist Hospital, treats a growing number of patients grappling with work-induced stress. His patients, primarily aged 20 to 40, often suffer from anxiety, hypertension, and even weakened immune systems due to work pressures. Some are so affected that they report symptoms of burnout, fatigue, and depression.
According to Dr. Prem Kumar, the risk of mental health issues rises for those working over 55 hours a week. "People need to understand that hard work and overwork are not the same," he explains. He advises workers to aim for a weekly cap of 38 to 45 hours and to make time for self-care, relaxation, and family. His advice is straightforward but critical: prioritize “me-time,” set boundaries, and periodically reassess one’s work situation.
Achieving Balance in a Post-Pandemic World
Workplace expectations have shifted significantly since the pandemic, with many employees now experiencing higher workloads and less separation between work and personal life. Dr. Prem Kumar believes that this transition has made the boundary between dedication and overwork blurrier. Many of his patients, he says, aren’t aware that their symptoms—such as anxiety and sleep deprivation—are linked to poor work-life balance.
For Malaysians, the path to a balanced life requires intentional decisions. Dr. Prem Kumar recommends evaluating priorities, improving time management, and refining work routines that make room for life outside work. “Reward your achievements by making time for family, hobbies, and things you enjoy,” he advises.
The Future of Work-Life Balance in Malaysia
This ongoing debate reveals a divide: while industry leaders argue that Malaysia’s workforce benefits from adequate support and freedom, mental health experts warn of the rising toll that work-related stress takes on individuals.
The solution likely lies in a blend of cultural adjustments, clear communication, and structural support. By recognizing and addressing these differences, Malaysian companies can help employees strike a balance that fosters productivity without compromising mental well-being.
In a country with one of the world’s highest numbers of public holidays, maybe the real question isn’t if Malaysians are overworked, but rather: are we managing the balance well enough?