Guys! As we already know, our Prime Minister announced that Monday, 15 September 2025, will be a public holiday for all Malaysians! That’s right — a long weekend is officially on the cards, and it’s all in conjunction with Malaysia Day, which falls on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.
As someone who juggles work and short getaways, I think this bonus holiday is a great opportunity to take a breather or plan something fun with family or friends. Whether you’re heading back to your hometown, exploring a new café, or just enjoying a well-deserved nap at home, this announcement definitely comes as good news.
So why was 15 September 2025 made a public holiday?
According to PM Anwar Ibrahim, it’s all about giving Malaysians extra time to reflect on the country’s unity and journey since its formation. Symbolically, it adds weight to Malaysia Day celebrations, making it a true moment of togetherness and national pride.
And yes, the implementation of the additional holiday is subject to provisions under Section 60D(1) of the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265) for Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan; the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Chapter 67), the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Chapter 76) and the Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369) as the basis for the announcement of the official additional holiday by the government.
Here’s what employers and employees need to know:
- If your company already assigned 11 paid public holidays for 2025, this 15 Sept holiday still counts as an extra mandatory day off.
- Employers can:
- Give the day off with full pay,
- Ask employees to work, but pay them double (2x daily wage) and triple (3x hourly rate for OT hours),
- Replace the holiday with another paid day off.
- If you’re working on that day, make sure you check your payroll — the Employment Act ensures proper compensation, including overtime rates if applicable.
For employers, especially those in F&B, healthcare, logistics, or retail, you might want to start adjusting your shift planning and payroll settings now. Even the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has urged the government to gazette the holiday early, so businesses can prepare.
From a practical point of view, this bonus holiday is perfect for planning a gathering with loved ones, exploring local attractions, or finally going on that short getaway you’ve always had in mind.
So, mark your calendars:
📅 13 Sept (Saturday)
📅 14 Sept (Sunday)
📅 15 Sept (Monday – Public Holiday)
📅 16 Sept (Tuesday – Malaysia Day)
4 days of freedom.
You’re welcome.
So, what do you plan to do during the long weekend?
