Kesejahteraan Sosial

22 KOMPENDIUM REKOMENDASI POLISI KESEJAHTERAAN PSIKOLOGI PERKHIDMATAN AWAM KESEJAHTERAAN SOSIAL In light of these findings, Malaysia is recommended to adopt a multi-tiered approach to workplace flexibility. This should include (i) the formal integration of remote working policies with infrastructure support and regulatory safeguards, (ii) the introduction of a legal entitlement to flexible or compressed work schedules, and (iii) the development of sector-specific guidelines to ensure that flexibility is accessible to different occupational groups. These refinements would not only improve the effectiveness of existing policies such as staggered working hours, but also promote a more inclusive, gender-sensitive and equitable work and family policy landscape. Childcare Support Despite the existence of various policy frameworks and circulars that support the establishment of childcare facilities in the workplace in Malaysia, many government agencies continue to lack on-site childcare facilities. This persistent shortfall is primarily due to the absence of binding legal obligations and the lack of robust financial incentives for employers to establish such facilities. Policies and guidelines such as Public Service Circulars 38/2013 and 1/2023 for the civil service, along with the Guidelines for the Establishment of Childcare Centres (TASKA) and Kindergartens (TADIKA), offer fee subsidies and comprehensive implementation standards-including building safety, staff qualifications, and coordination with the Department of Social Welfare, yet compliance remains voluntary. As a result, implementation is inconsistent and depends on the discretionary capacity of individual departments. The lack of accessible on-site childcare poses major challenges for workingparents, particularlymothers, whocontinue to takeon themajority of caregiving responsibilities. In the absence of affordable and convenient childcare solutions, many parents are forced to rely on external providers, which are often costly and logistically burdensome. This exacerbates parental stress, disrupts work-life balance and disproportionately affects single parents and dual-income households. The gap between existing policy instruments and their practical implementation emphasises a broader structural issue: without mandatory provisions or material support, policies intended to improve the integration of work and family remain ineffective. These conditions have wider implications for gender equality, employee well-being, and labour market participation. Without support