From Burnout to Balance: Comparative Insights on Malaysian Work-Life Policies

Batrisyia Binti David Mc’Grath @ Rahmat, Danisha Irdina Binti Yusop, Husna Humaira Binti Mohamad Zamri, Shafieqa Binti Shamsudin, Nurul Izza Shamsul Kamal, Ain Maryam Zolkipli and Sayidah Asma Basir
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Batrisyia Binti David Mc’Grath @ Rahmat: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Danisha Irdina Binti Yusop: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Husna Humaira Binti Mohamad Zamri: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Shafieqa Binti Shamsudin: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Nurul Izza Shamsul Kamal: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Ain Maryam Zolkipli: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA
Sayidah Asma Basir: Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science, 2025, vol. 10, issue 9, 819-822

Abstract: This article examines the challenges of work-life balance (WLB) within Malaysia’s private sector, where employees face long working hours, rising stress levels, and limited legal protections. Drawing on a doctrinal and comparative methodology, the study evaluates Malaysia’s Employment Act 1955 (as amended in 2022) against international models such as France’s right to disconnect, the Netherlands’ Flexible Work Act, and Belgium’s four-day workweek reform. The literature demonstrates that while European countries have embedded WLB protections into binding law, Malaysia continues to rely on non-binding guidelines and employer discretion. The findings highlight significant gaps in statutory protections, particularly regarding flexible work and digital overconnectivity. The discussion underscores how weak enforcement and cultural norms contribute to Malaysia’s poor global ranking for WLB. The article concludes by recommending amendments to the Employment Act, statutory recognition of the right to disconnect, and mandatory employer wellness reporting to align Malaysia’s legal framework with international best practices.

Date: 2025
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