Search

4-day workweek — is it really worth it?

Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp
Telegram
Email
Dr Bernard Ting

KUCHING: Many have called for the standard workweek to be reduced from five days to four.

However, there are concerns over its practicality and the ways in which it can benefit both employers and employees. What about in terms of mental health?

According to Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) Department of Psychological Medicine medical lecturer Dr Bernard Ting Chuong Hock, the idea of working four days a week in Malaysia may not be the greatest method to prevent burnout.

“First of all, it is essential to examine who chooses this option and why they feel that way.

“There are many additional factors at play in addition to just working five days per week that cause issues. I believe that directly addressing those issues is more important,” he told the New Sarawak Tribune when contacted.

He acknowledged that the goal of flexible work arrangements is to retain personal wellbeing while boosting productivity.

“I believe there are more effective strategies to promote work-life balance than simply reducing working hours.

“For example, employers can have some health promotion programme on working days and encourage employees to use annual leave,” he said.

In order to enable families to spend quality time together, Dr Ting mentioned that some organisations set aside one afternoon each week for just exercising or attending motivational talks.

“With that being said, there is no one-size-fits-all policy. Examining needs and adjusting to our own culture and background is worthwhile,” he pointed out.

Download from Apple Store or Play Store.