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Section 2: Work and Employment
Know Your Labour Rights
Working hours, leave, termination, and protections
Your Basic Labour Rights
As a worker in Malaysia, you have rights protected by law. Your employer must respect these rights.
Working Hours:
- ⏰ Maximum 8 hours per day
- ⏰ Maximum 48 hours per week
- ⏰ 1 rest day per week
- ⏰ Overtime pay for extra work
Leave Entitlements:
- 🏖️ Annual Leave: 8-16 days per year
- 🤒 Sick Leave: 14-22 days per year
- 🏥 Hospitalization: 60 days per year
- 👶 Maternity Leave: 98 days (paid)
- 👨 Paternity Leave: 7 days
- 🕌 Public Holidays: 11 days per year
Overtime (OT):
- Normal day: 1.5× hourly rate
- Rest day: 2× or 3× hourly rate
- Public holiday: 3× hourly rate
Termination:
- Employer must give notice or pay in lieu
- You cannot be fired without just cause
- Severance pay if retrenched
If your rights are violated:
- 📞 Call JTK Hotline: 1-800-88-6600
- 🏢 Visit JTK office
- 📝 File a complaint
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer make me work more than 8 hours?
Only with overtime pay. Normal working hours cannot exceed 8 hours/day or 48 hours/week without your consent. OT must be paid at 1.5× your hourly rate.
Am I entitled to annual leave during probation?
Yes, but it's pro-rated. If you leave before completing a year, annual leave is calculated based on completed months of service.
Can my employer reject my maternity leave?
No, maternity leave is a legal right. Your employer cannot terminate you during maternity leave except for misconduct or business closure.
Can I be fired without notice?
Only for serious misconduct (theft, violence, etc.). Otherwise, employer must give notice or pay salary in lieu of notice.
Last updated: March 2026
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. Always verify with official sources for the most current information.