Recent research has uncovered a significant shift in Malaysian work preferences, with nearly 40% of citizens expressing a willingness to leave their jobs if required to spend more time in the office.
According to findings from a survey conducted by Randstad Malaysia, this sentiment underscores a broader trend towards work flexibility in the country.
The study, which involved 27,000 respondents aged 18 to 67 from 35 countries, highlighted that 52% of Malaysians now report increased expectations from employers to work beyond traditional office hours.
This marks a 17% surge from global averages, reflecting evolving attitudes towards workplace norms.
Randstad Malaysia, Country Director, Fahad Naeem noted a particularly striking trend among younger demographics, with 49% of Gen Z and 47% of Millennials expressing a preference for flexible work arrangements. Naeem emphasised that this shift is fueled by life changes made during the pandemic, such as relocations and pet acquisitions, which have led many to embrace the benefits of remote work.
“Many are not averse to working from the office at least three days a week.
“This sentiment arises from life changes made by two out of five Malaysians, such as relocation or acquiring pets, in anticipation of continued flexible work options post-Covid-19 pandemic.
“Particularly noteworthy is that 51 per cent among Gen Z and 47 per cent of Millennials have adapted to remote work effectively during the pandemic, altering perceptions of traditional office work due to the elimination of commuting and high rent costs,” he said.
Despite the growing demand for flexibility, the survey revealed that 86% of Malaysians still prefer working from the office for at least three days a week.
“While there is a strong desire for work flexibility, the reality varies.
Half of the respondents indicated that their employers enforce a mandatory five-day office work policy, with only nine per cent working fewer than two days a week.
One in ten respondents stated that their employers lack flexible work policies,” he said.
Naeem emphasised the need for organisations to adapt to these changing preferences, citing that job seekers are increasingly selective in choosing roles that offer flexibility.
The survey also shed light on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, with 52% of respondents hesitant to accept job offers from companies lacking proactive diversity initiatives. Naeem stressed that modern job seekers prioritise equity, diversity, and inclusion policies, with diverse leadership backgrounds, gender pay equity, and family leave ranking among the top considerations.
