Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses have explored the concept of working from home (WFH) and it appeared to be a viable option for some employees.
As for now, some companies are even considering adopting a hybrid work model or going fully remote given that it is something employees want.
However, the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) said that workers who prefer to work from home should get a pay cut as they are no longer going to the office.
“Actually, there are lots of opinions on whether it is okay for those who work from home to be paid less. Many companies say that if there is a cut, it should 10-12%,” said MEF executive director Shamsuddin Bardan.
“However, the final decision rests with the employee. If they want to work from home then they take the pay cut, if they go to the office then they will get the allowance.” he added.
He also explained that this is because some companies do offer travelling allowances and if employees want to WFH, they should not be receiving the allowance.
Naturally, this piece of news did not sell well with several MPs and among them are former youth and sports minister Syed Saddiq, who slammed MEF for making such statements.
He then pointed out that those who WFH have to pay for their own increased electricity and internet bills, in addition to having to work until night.
With this, Syed Saddiq believes that their pay should not be touched.
Apa jenis cadangan macam ni?
— Syed Saddiq (@SyedSaddiq) April 25, 2022
Pekerja yang kerja dari rumah pun keluar duit untuk syarikat juga.
Bil elektrik, wifi bayar sendiri. Selalunya memang kena kerja sampai malam juga. Kalau bab potong gaji, laju je fikir. pic.twitter.com/O6cGJKa1pK
Many netizens agree with Syed Saddiq and said that businesses are actually saving more when their employees work from home.
“Our utility bills double when we work from home but the company’s utility bills drop significantly. This do not include employees who don’t have WiFi at home and need to buy data just to work. The salary is not even adjusted to the inflation rate yet you still want to cut it?” a netizen commented.
Meanwhile, another netizen pointed out that most directors and bosses who work while on vacation should get their pay cuts too.
What do you think about this remark from MEF? Share your thoughts in the comment section!
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