Annual leave is a benefit that most employees look forward to every year. In Malaysia, all employees are entitled to annual leave, including contract staff. However, the number of days of annual leave that contract staff will receive depends on the terms of their contract.
The Employment Act of Malaysia states that an employee is entitled to a minimum of 8 days of annual leave for each 12 months of continuous service with the same employer. However, this entitlement can be increased by the employer based on the terms of the contract or collective agreement.
Contract staff who work less than a year with an employer are still entitled to annual leave, but the number of days they will receive will be prorated based on the number of months they have worked. For example, if a contract staff member has worked for six months, they will be entitled to four days of annual leave.
It is crucial for contract staff to check the details of their employment contract to confirm their entitlement to annual leave. Some employers may offer additional benefits to their contract staff that are not required by law, such as paid holidays or sick leave.
Furthermore, if a contract staff member chooses to terminate their contract before completing 12 months of continuous service, they may not be entitled to annual leave. However, if their contract stipulates that they are entitled to pro-rated annual leave, they will receive the appropriate amount.
In conclusion, contract staff in Malaysia are entitled to annual leave, but the number of days they receive depends on their employment contract. It is essential to read the contract carefully to understand the terms and conditions of employment, including entitlement to annual leave. By understanding their rights, contract staff can ensure that they are receiving the benefits they are entitled to under Malaysian law.