Kuala lumpur: The proposed implementation of a flexible work policy and enhancements to the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative were among the issues raised by Members of Parliament during the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address at the Dewan Rakyat today. Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik (PH-Balik Pulau) highlighted concerns regarding modern work demands impacting family life and mental health, urging the government to consider flexible work arrangements to promote a better work-life balance.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Bakhtiar emphasized that national development should also focus on the quality of life, not just economic metrics like GDP. He advocated for work-from-home arrangements in suitable sectors to protect workers' mental health and enhance the employer culture.

Wong Shu Qi (PH-Kluang) called for improved monitoring of the SARA initiative, particularly concerning the registration of rural retail outlets as SARA shops. She noted a complaint from traders in her constituency about delayed application responses, urging the Ministry of Finance to oversee the implementation by the MyKasih Foundation more closely. Wong also recommended prioritizing local products to support local traders and manufacturers.

On early childhood education, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (MUDA-Muar) advocated for free, high-quality, and accessible preschool education. He suggested that Malaysia should model its approach on developed countries that provide equal access without screening mechanisms, emphasizing the need to adapt successful foreign practices to local contexts.

The Dewan Rakyat sitting is scheduled to continue on Monday.