Forum: Employers should communicate leave policies clearly

I refer to the letter “

Do I need to take a day’s leave if it’s a half-day at work?

” (Feb 23) by Mr Jeff Wee. He sought clarification on whether employers were allowed to require employees to apply for a full day’s leave on eves of public holidays where the employers had granted a half-day off. He also asked if the Ministry of Manpower could advise employers on best practices in this regard.

The Employment Act entitles employees to paid public holidays but does not have any stipulation regarding the eve of public holidays. As a voluntary goodwill gesture to staff, employers may grant time off on working days including the eves of public holidays or in conjunction with company events.

As such arrangements are offered at the employer’s discretion, they may decide on the applicable leave policies according to the employment contract as per a normal working day. For instance, an employer can decide if an employee who wishes to take the whole day off should utilise a full day or half a day of their paid annual leave. This flexibility ensures employers can offer additional benefits while maintaining their operational needs.

We encourage all employers to communicate their leave policies clearly, including how half-day arrangements are treated under their annual leave policies. As Mr Wee rightly noted, employers who proactively clarify these issues can better foster mutual understanding and goodwill in the workplace.

Tan Li Sheng

Divisional Director, Workplace Policy and Strategy Division

Ministry of Manpower