Dealing with Work

Know your maternity leave entitlements.

Do you know your maternity entitlements? This article touches on the basics of maternity leave and the finer details of whether you need to tell your employer that you are pregnant.

headphones

PLAYING: Know your maternity leave entitlements.

1 min read

You can return to work no earlier than two weeks after the birth

Maternity entitlements

What is a female employee's entitlement?

Maternity leave

  • Your maternity leave starts from your delivery date
  • You can return to work no earlier than two weeks after the birth
  • If  you work for private sector your maternity leave should be a minimum of 60 days and 90 days if you  work for Federal government and certain states in Malaysia
     

When to tell your boss

  • There is no legal provision in the Employment Act 1955 that you should tell your employer that you are pregnant but your employment contract may require you to inform them. Talk to your HR department if you are unsure .
  • You may find it better to tell them as soon as possible, so they know you have a good reason to attend medical appointments (you may be entitled to paid time off for antenatal appointments)
     

Paternity leave

  • Your spouse may be entitled to paid paternity leave (check with your spouse's employer)

 

Disclaimer: This content is shared for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional/medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We recommended that you always seek the advice of your healthcare professional for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition/specific situation.

 

References:

 

  1. https://www.globalcompliancenews.com/2022/04/20/malaysia-employment-amendment-bill-2021-key-amendments-to-the-employment-act-1955-06092022/
  2. https://www.nst.com.my/news/government-public-policy/2022/03/781909/approved-amendments-employment-act-covering-paternity

 

 

 

Recommended content

Myths and Facts

Myths and Facts

You'll probably find that a lot of people tell you lots of old wives' tales about pregnancy. But most of them have no medical basis at all. This article reveals the facts behind the most common myths.

Becoming a Dad

Becoming a Dad

There's nothing like finding out you're going to be a dad to turn your world upside down. This article talks to the dad-to-be and provides useful advice and tips on how to handle the months to come.

Traveling when Pregnant

Travelling when Pregnant

This article discusses potential problems of travelling when pregnant and what to do if travelling is unavoidable.

Symptoms

Pregnancy Symptoms

It's normal to have some aches and pains during your pregnancy. This article describes ideas you can try to make things more comfortable, and highlights symptoms that need the attention of your GP.