SHAH ALAM, Oct 29 — Execution costs, legal responsibilities and the lack of expertise are among challenges in designing a policy to ensure mental wellness in the workplace, said Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) president Datuk Syed Hussain Syed Husman.
He added that this policy must come with practical guidelines to ensure employers can implement it without sidelining workers’ well-being.
He said stigma, workers’ concerns and access to support services must also be prioritised.
“This policy must come with clear guidelines so employers understand what needs to be done, the forms of support they can give workers, and suitable approaches to ensure effective implementation in the workplace.
“Views from stakeholders like MEF and the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) must also be considered when finalising policies,” he said when contacted.
He added that employers may provide confidential helplines, train managers to identify early signs of mental health problems, and protect workers’ privacy.
Flexible work arrangements could also be considered, as well as promoting prevention culture so action isn’t taken only when workers are in crisis, Syed Hussain said.
Previously, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said the government is engaging with stakeholders to develop such a policy, aimed at strengthening support systems and access to mental health services in the workplace.
