Niaz Asadullah of the Global Labour Organisation, an international research network, said: “Success hinges on maintaining high service quality while adapting work schedules.
“If managed well, this policy could signal innovation, strengthening Johor’s competitive edge in attracting foreign direct investment.”
However, he said, any decline in administrative efficiency could discourage businesses that rely on dealing with the government.
He suggested carrying out the change in phases, to assess the affect on industries dependent on timely government approvals, such as construction and transport.
Last week, the state government said it was considering a four-and-a-half-day workweek for civil servants, after switching the state weekend to Saturday and Sunday next year.
Menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the proposal would be considered if it improves productivity without reducing total working hours.
However, Teh Kee Sin, founding president of the SME Association of South Johor, was concerned about whether the efficiency of government services would be affected.
He said the civil service should use the time to prove its ability to manage growing demands stemming from major projects like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.
“Government processes, such as licensing and approvals, are often criticised for delays, so this has already had a bad image,” he said, adding that it must be proven wrong.
Johor Tourist Guides Association chairman Jimmy Leong said the tourism sector would see minimal disruption, as operators have remained self-sustaining during peak periods. - FMT
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