Extended Break for All Workers
ISKANDAR PUTERI: From January 1, 2025, all employees in Johor, across both public and private sectors, will be entitled to a two-hour break every Friday, announced Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Alignment with New Weekend Schedule
The Johor Mentri Besar emphasized that this adjustment aligns with the state’s weekend shift from Friday-Saturday to Saturday-Sunday. The change aims to allow Muslim workers sufficient time for Friday prayers.
Changes for Public and Private Sectors
“Government departments and agencies will follow the Federal Government’s schedule. Private sector employers are also required to extend Friday break times from 1.5 hours to 2 hours to ensure comfort for Muslim employees,” he said during the Johor Budget 2025 presentation at Kota Iskandar.
Schools to Support Religious Obligations
Additionally, schools may use suraus and halls to facilitate Friday prayers for male Muslim students. Onn Hafiz stated that the Education Department and Religious Affairs Department would coordinate with the Mufti Department to implement this.
Positive Impact on Economy and Families
He expressed optimism about the economic benefits of the weekend shift while preserving religious values, adding that families would have more opportunities for quality time together.
Decree Brings End to Friday-Saturday Weekends
This decision follows the decree by Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim in October, ending the 11-year practice of observing Friday-Saturday weekends.
