DUN Sarawak: Amendments to public holidays reduce confusion

KUCHING, 13 Oct: Sarawak Public Holidays Amendment Bill (Bill) is important to clarify the method of setting substitute leave when public holidays fall on Sunday or coincide with other public holidays, thus giving certainty to employees and employers.

Member of the Kalaka State Legislative Assembly (ADUN), Mohamad Duri said that it could standardize the implementation of shift leave, reduce confusion and package administration especially with regard to work schedules and worker leave qualifications.

According to him, the Sarawak Ordinance on General Removal in force since 16 December 1946 has not been amended for a long time, so checks need to be made to ensure its allocation meets current requirements.

"According to the proposed mechanism, if public holidays fall on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes an alternate holiday.

"If Monday is also a public holiday, Tuesday is a substitute holiday, unless otherwise determined by the State Senate in accordance with amendment provisions", he said.

He said this while discussing the General Release Day (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference today.

Mohamad explained that the certainty is important to allow employees to plan family affairs, travel and personal commitments, as well as help employers to prepare work schedules and operational requirements including in sectors operating according to the syllabus.

"The public spaces give people space to relax, spend time with their families and participate in social and community activities.

"The clear set-up also helped the multi-ethnic, religious and cultural community of Sarawak to plan a celebration", he said.

In this regard, he suggested that the government through related departments and agencies expand the explanation on amendments after it is approved and announced to include employers, human resources department, private sector workers, small and medium enterprises as well as shiftworkers.

"Related activities should also monitor implementation, deal with questions and complaints according to their respective jurisdictions as well as clarify the scope of application and effective date of amendments to ensure that all parties can make early planning", he explained.