Johor’s Two-Hour Friday Break Announced
From Jan 1, 2025, Johor workers will benefit from a two-hour Friday break as the state adopts Saturday-Sunday weekends.
Major Announcement for Employees
ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor will implement a two-hour break for all workers on Fridays next year, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi revealed during the Johor Budget 2025 announcement.
Transition to New Weekend Routine
The extended break is part of the state’s decision to transition to a Saturday-Sunday weekend, starting January 1, 2025. The move ensures Muslim employees have ample time for Friday prayers.
Clear Guidelines for Employers
Government agencies and private companies must adjust their schedules to accommodate this change. “Private employers are required to extend the Friday break from 90 minutes to two hours,” Onn Hafiz said.
Schools to Offer Prayer Spaces
He also highlighted plans for schools to utilize suraus and halls to ensure male Muslim students can fulfill their religious obligations. Relevant state departments will oversee these arrangements.
Benefits of Weekend Shift
Onn Hafiz praised the weekend shift, emphasizing its positive impact on both economic growth and family cohesion. The change reflects a balance between economic priorities and religious obligations.
End of Friday-Saturday Rest Days
This marks the conclusion of Johor’s Friday-Saturday weekend arrangement, as decreed by Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim in October.