Flexi-work not the only way to go

Consider setting up branch offices with vibrant workspaces instead, employers say

PETALING JAYA: The demand for flexible work arrangements is growing among Malaysians.

While employers say they are keen to allow this, they are worried that rushing to implement such arrangements will cause more harm than good for both sides.

This is according to a recent survey of 517 working adults by talent agency Randstad Malaysia, which found 39% of them would consider quitting if their employers asked them to spend more time in the office.

One-third of respondents also said that working from home was a non-negotiable feature they looked for in a job, according to Randstad’s 2024 Malaysia Workmonitor report, based on a survey conducted between October and November last year.

Diversity and equity are important to the younger generation, with 52% saying they would not accept a job if the company is not proactive in improving diversity and equity.

“Even though equity, diversity and inclusion may not always be the top priority when looking for a new job, it has become increasingly important to the modern job seeker.

“To this end, 67% of Malaysians said that they hide aspects of themselves at work, which may prompt them to look for organisations that provide them with a safe environment where they can be themselves,” read the report.

SME Association of Malaysia secretary-general Chin Chee Seong said the association has actively encouraged its members to adopt more flexible work arrangements.

“Employees are increasingly prioritising work-life balance and flexible working conditions are crucial for SMEs (small and medium enterprises) to adjust to market shifts.

“In today’s competitive job market, offering such arrangements is often essential in attracting and retaining skilled staff,” he said.

He said flexible work arrangements improve employee morale, which in turn boost employee engagement, productivity and loyalty to the company amid the current challenging economy.

However, he added that employees may suffer from overwork or mental stress due to blurred lines between home and work life, while employers may struggle to achieve consistent productivity from employees.

“It will be hard to preserve a cohesive corporate culture if everyone is working separately all the time.

“While the benefits can outweigh the possible issues, clear guidelines alongside suitable digital tools must be used to manage the workforce effectively.

“To achieve efficiency and smooth implementation, it is also crucial to regularly engage with employees to understand their individual preferences,” said Chin.

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia treasurer-general Datuk Koong Lin Loong said the country is not fully ready to implement flexible working arrangements on a wide scale.

“It may prove difficult for us to continue growing if flexible working arrangements become the norm, especially among SMEs.

“Due to their budding nature, most of them lack the widespread advanced work culture with values such as responsibility that can be seen in other advanced economies such as Japan.

“This could cause foreign investors to find it difficult to set up business in Malaysia due to a lack of manpower, which results in employers being unable to fill positions while employees are unable to find jobs,” he said.

Koong added that flexible working arrangements are a double-edged sword for employers if not implemented well.

“While they could provide more job opportunities for the untapped workforce, such as those with children, the same children could also become a distraction during working hours, thus affecting productivity.

“Instead of flexible work hours or working from home, businesses could instead create branch offices by renting nearby fun-looking workspaces, cutting both travel time and enabling them to respond to home emergencies quickly.”