The SME Association of Malaysia (SME Malaysia) has voiced support for the government’s decision to declare an additional public holiday in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri, describing the move as a balanced step taken after considering both festive needs and practical arrangements for the rakyat.
In a statement, SME Malaysia reacted to the recent public debate over the extra holiday saying that any public holiday announced close to the date will inevitably affect manpower planning, production schedules, deliveries and business commitments. However, it said such concerns from the business community are understandable and should be respected, while also recognising the special context of the Aidilfitri period.
The association pointed out that many employees had already planned to take leave and travel back to their hometowns for the festive season and that many businesses had anticipated that such an arrangement was possible.
“While this decision may not be fully welcomed by every business operator, it is clear that the government had considered various factors before making the announcement, including the broader national situation, festive needs, and the public’s practical arrangements,” said Dr Chin Chee Seong, National President of SME Malaysia .
He added that, in this context, the announcement actually helps provide clearer arrangements for both employers and employees and reduces unnecessary uncertainty around staffing and operations during the Hari Raya period.
Against this backdrop, SME Malaysia called on all parties to shift their focus towards how government and industry can work together to address these structural pressures, instead of becoming overly preoccupied with the Aidilfitri holiday decision.
“Since the government has made its decision, all sectors should support and cooperate with it in the broader interest of the nation, and focus their efforts on the more important economic and livelihood issues before us,” the association said.
The association also emphasised the need for stronger coordination and collaboration across ministries, agencies and government institutions in engaging SMEs. It urged relevant government bodies to work more closely with industry groups such as SME Malaysia to better understand on-the-ground pressures and to improve policy response, financing support, export facilitation, logistics, cost mitigation, talent development and market access.
On this basis, SME Malaysia reiterated its support for the Prime Minister’s decision on the additional Aidilfitri public holiday, while urging the government to place greater attention on the real economic pressures facing SMEs and micro enterprises and to drive deeper, continuous collaboration with the sector.
