I applaud the public service's exemplary move of granting all its employees one day of leave annually to do community work, along with its adoption of at least 50 charities ("Civil servants get 1 day off to volunteer at charities"; Oct 16).

Although there has been a steady increase in the number of companies giving back to society by way of donations, sponsorships and taking care of the environment, not much has been done to encourage workers to volunteer their services.

Hence, it is imperative that businesses that endorse community activities take a more holistic approach by allowing their employees time off to do good.

If government agencies can do it, why not others, especially multinational companies?

I am sure that a day of leave every year will not cost much in terms of productivity.

The sense of caring and sharing so inculcated will serve as a morale booster for all levels of employees.

Of course, some supervisory staff may feel apprehensive about this issue, but if the authorities themselves show a deeper interest and attach greater importance to corporate social responsibility, it will augur well for the future.

What is vitally important is that employees should be encouraged to sustain this moral enthusiasm so that, over time, there will be greater emotional connections within our community.

It would do well for employers to adopt "giving back to society" as a management philosophy.

Jeffrey Law Lee Beng