Kuala lumpur: Private companies are urged to consider adopting work-from-home (WFH) and hybrid working arrangements as an immediate measure to ease rising cost-of-living pressures and fuel subsidy burdens. Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan emphasized the importance of this transition during a recent event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government encourages employers, particularly in the private sector, to adopt these approaches based on their operational requirements. Ramanan highlighted that many large corporations, multinational companies, and banking institutions have already embraced this practice, and he expressed hope that more private companies would follow this recommendation.

Ramanan pointed out that the sharp rise in petrol subsidy costs, now nearly RM4 billion a month compared to about RM700 million previously, necessitates such measures to safeguard public interests. When asked about potential government incentives for companies implementing WFH arrangements, Ramanan mentioned that the matter is being considered, but more time is needed before any decision is made.

He stressed the importance of prudent spending in the current global crisis situation. Additionally, Ramanan discussed the Vetri MADANI Carnival, a program aimed at improving living standards through skills development, particularly among the Indian community in the country.

The initiative offers opportunities such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machinery training, job placements, and access to information on government assistance and programs, with an allocation of RM10 million. Ramanan encouraged the public to take advantage of these opportunities, which are open to 2,000 participants regardless of background, by registering via www.hrdcorp.gov.my.