HUMAN Resources Minister Steven Sim said employers are bound by the Labour Act to give their employees a day off for Thaipusam, reported The Star.
He said Thaipusam which falls on Feb 11 is not gazetted as a public holiday and any employee or employers who are unclear can consult the nearest labour office.
“We have to respect off days, including public holidays and annual leaves," he told reporters at the Parliament media centre.
Thaipusam is a public holiday in Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, Putrajaya and Selangor.
“The government is not there to punish employers or employees. But everyone must adhere to provisions under the Labour Act,” he said.
He also said his ministry would be providing services like health screening, career advice booths and registration for upskilling programmes during Thaipusam.
"This will be done at the Hindu temples in Batu Caves and at the Penang waterfall under the Kesuma Madani initiative for the second year running," said Sim.
He said that special areas will be sent to accommodate 700 people in Batu Caves and 500 in Penang between 6am and 6pm on the day of the celebration.
"Bread and mineral water bottles will also be provided throughout the day to devotees and visitors," he added. - February 6, 2025
