Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 16, 2024 11:24 pm GMT
The state of Johor is making a notable shift in its weekend schedule. Starting January 1, 2025, Johor will revert to a Saturday and Sunday weekend, a change welcomed by many in the community. This decision comes after careful consideration and consultation with various stakeholders, signaling a move towards alignment with the federal government’s schedule.
Announcement Details
The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Johor Tunku Ismail Ibrahim, announced this change through a Facebook post on October 7, 2023. He stated that the decision has obtained the royal assent from Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the King of Malaysia. Tunku Ismail emphasized the importance of this transition, saying it aims to allow Muslim workers adequate time to attend Friday prayers.
“It is crucial that the private sector, the government, and related parties allow sufficient time and space for Muslim workers to perform Friday prayers accordingly,” Tunku Ismail said in his announcement.
Key points from the announcement include:
- Effective Date: The new weekend days begin on January 1, 2025.
- Previous Schedule: The current weekend of Friday and Saturday has been in place since January 1, 2014.
- Stakeholder Input: The decision followed discussions with the Johor Islamic Religious Council and other relevant parties.
Background of the Weekend Change
The move to revert to a Saturday-Sunday weekend stems from feedback collected from various sectors, including education, banking, and industry. Many stakeholders voiced concerns regarding the impact of the current Friday-Saturday system on work-life balance and overall productivity.
Originally, Johor shifted to a Friday-Saturday weekend in 2014 to mark Sultan Ibrahim’s 55th birthday. However, as the landscape of work and societal needs evolved, calls for a review of this arrangement surfaced. A review began in June 2022, responding to widespread complaints from the public regarding the efficacy of the existing weekend structure.
Adjustments Needed for Implementation
Adjusting to the new weekend schedule will involve several changes across different sectors. Reports suggest that businesses, particularly in finance, education, and manufacturing, may need up to three months to adapt their payroll, work systems, and employee schedules.
A source familiar with the situation stated, “Changes in the work weeks will take time to implement effectively,” highlighting the challenges associated with shifting an established routine.
Public Reaction
The decision has been met with a mix of support and concern. Many residents of Johor have welcomed the announcement, appreciating the alignment with the weekend schedules of neighboring regions. For those in the education sector, the shift may lead to increased collaboration with federal institutions, ensuring smoother operations.
However, some individuals have expressed worries about potential disruptions during the transition period. Private businesses, in particular, will need to assess how best to manage this change while minimizing any impact on productivity.
Other States and Comparisons
Notably, this decision contrasts with other Malaysian states like Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu, which currently observe the Friday-Saturday weekend system. Johor’s shift could foster greater synchronization with these regions and potentially pave the way for a more unified work environment across Malaysia.
Conclusion
The return to a Saturday-Sunday weekend in Johor marks a significant milestone for the state and its residents. With the transition set for January 2025, preparation efforts need to begin promptly.
As stakeholders work to implement these changes, the focus will be on ensuring a smooth adjustment for everyone involved. The move is seen as a positive step in fostering a community that better balances work and religious observances.
To stay updated and get more information, check out your local news or join community discussions.
