1. Annual Leave: What's the Minimum?

If you work in the private sector for at least 12 months and are under a service contract, you are entitled to minimum annual leave:

• 0 - 2 years of experience: 8 days per year

• 2 - 5 years of experience: 12 days per year

• 5 years and above: 16 days per year

If you resign before completing one year, leave will be calculated pro-rata.

2. Public Holidays: Minimum 11 Paid Days

Every employee is entitled to a minimum of 11 paid public holidays per year, including 5 mandatory holidays like Labour Day, National Day, Malaysia Day, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday, and State Ruler/Governor's Birthday or Federal Territory Day.

3. Sick Leave (MC): Your Important Right

Sick leave approved by a certified doctor must be fully paid by the employer.

• Without Hospitalization:

• 14 days (worked < 2 years)

• 18 days (2 - 5 years)

• 22 days (> 5 years)

• With Hospitalization: Maximum 60 days per year (including non-hospitalization leave).

4. Maternity & Paternity Leave (2023): Better for Families

• Maternity Leave (female): Increased to 98 days.

• Paternity Leave (male): 7 paid days for fathers (conditional on working > 12 months and giving prior notice).

5. Unrecorded Leave & Other Rights: Don't Overlook

There are also additional types of leave not deducted from annual leave, such as quarantine leave, mandatory training leave, and religious affair leave. For these, refer to company policy or HR.

6. If Leave Rights Are Violated: Report to JTK!

If an employer does not comply with leave laws (e.g., insufficient leave, denied leave without valid reason, unpaid sick leave), you can file a formal complaint with the Department of Labour (JTK). Make sure to keep evidence like payslips, MCs, and communication records.

Conclusion: Understanding your leave rights is crucial for your work-life balance and mental well-being as an employee. Don't let your rights be easily disregarded!