Hari Raya Aidilfitri Public Holiday 2025 in Malaysia: Dates & Tips

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is one of the most significant celebrations in Malaysia, marking the end of Ramadan. It is a time of joy, family reunions, and festivities.

As an employer, planning ahead ensures smooth business operations while allowing employees to enjoy their well-deserved break.

When is Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025?

For 2025, Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Malaysia is expected to fall on Monday, 31 March 2025, with the second public holiday on Tuesday, 1 April 2025.

However, the exact date will be confirmed by the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal based on moon sighting.

Employers should monitor announcements from JAKIM or the Prime Minister’s Office for confirmation.

Since many employees plan their travel and leave early, employers should anticipate and manage staffing needs accordingly.

Long Weekend & Extended Leave Planning

By strategically planning annual leave, employees can enjoy an extended break:

Saturday, 29 March 2025 – Weekend
Sunday, 30 March 2025 – Weekend
Monday, 31 March 2025 – Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Public Holiday)
Tuesday, 1 April 2025 – Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Public Holiday)
Wednesday, 2 April 2025 – Normal working day
Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Normal working day
Friday, 4 April 2025 – Normal working day
Saturday, 5 April 2025 – Weekend
Sunday, 6 April 2025 – Weekend

Employees might take leave on 2-4 April 2025 (Wednesday to Friday) so that they can enjoy a 9-day holiday from 29 March to 6 April 2025.

Are Employers Required to Provide Additional Leave?

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a public holiday in Malaysia, meaning all employees are entitled to two days off.

However, additional leave depends on company policies. Here’s tips for employers:

Encourage employees to submit leave requests early to avoid scheduling conflicts.
Use a rotational leave system for businesses that operate during the holiday.
Ensure fair allocation of leave to prevent workforce shortages.

Managing Work Schedules & Business Continuity

Plan Work Schedules in Advance

Planning ahead is crucial to maintaining business continuity during the Hari Raya period. Employers should:

Identify key tasks and deadlines before the holiday.
Notify clients and suppliers of any changes in business hours.
Assign backup personnel for critical business functions.

Offer Flexible Work Arrangements

Providing flexible work arrangements can ease the transition before and after the holiday. Employers may consider:

Allowing remote work options where possible.
Implementing staggered work hours post-Hari Raya to help employees transition back smoothly.

Set Clear Customer & Client Expectations

To maintain customer satisfaction and business efficiency, companies should:

Update business hours on websites and social media.
Automate email responses to inform clients of potential delays.
Stock up on inventory and supplies before the break.

Overtime Pay & Allowances for Working During Hari Raya

If employees are required to work on Hari Raya Aidilfitri, they are entitled to special rates under Malaysia’s Employment Act 1955:

Public holiday work: Employees must be paid double their daily wage.
Overtime on a public holiday: Employees must be paid triple their hourly rate for extra hours worked.
Shift workers: Employees on rotating shifts must still receive the public holiday rate.

Example Calculation:

If an employee's daily wage is RM100:

Working on Hari Raya: RM100 × 2 = RM200
Overtime on Hari Raya (3 hours): (RM100 ÷ 8) × 3 × 3 = RM112.50
Total earnings for the day: RM312.50

Employers should ensure payroll calculations comply with Malaysia’s labor laws to avoid disputes.

Hari Raya Bonuses & Incentives

Many companies in Malaysia provide Hari Raya bonuses or allowances as a token of appreciation. These may include:

Bonus payout – Some companies offer an extra one-month salary or a fixed amount.
Duit Raya – A small cash gift to boost employee morale.
Gift hampers or vouchers – Non-cash rewards such as shopping vouchers or festive hampers.

While bonuses are not mandatory, they help with employee retention and motivation. Employers should communicate clearly whether a bonus will be provided.

Supporting Employees for a Stress-Free Celebration

Encourage Financial Planning

Many employees overspend during Hari Raya, leading to post-holiday financial stress.

Employers can offer financial literacy workshops or payroll advances to assist them.

Organize a Pre-Hari Raya Gathering

Hosting a company buka puasa event or a small celebration fosters a positive work culture.

Distributing Hari Raya hampers such as cookies and snacks can make employees feel valued.

Provide Transport or Travel Assistance

Some companies arrange shuttle services for employees returning to their hometowns.

Alternatively, providing travel allowances can be a great incentive

Post-Hari Raya: Managing Productivity & Employee Morale

Returning to work after a festive break can be challenging. Here’s how employers can ensure a smooth transition:

Organize a short team meeting to help employees get back on track.
Be flexible on the first day back, allowing a gradual return to normal work routines.
Recognize employees who worked during the holiday with small incentives or appreciation notes.

FAQs for Employers

1. Can an employer require employees to work on Hari Raya?

Yes, but employees must be compensated according to Malaysia’s Employment Act 1955. Employers should communicate expectations early.

2. What if an employee calls in sick on Hari Raya?

Employees must provide valid medical proof. Employers can refer to company policies on medical leave.

3. How can SMEs manage holiday leave when resources are tight?

SMEs can use temporary staff, shift adjustments, or remote work options to manage operations.

Planning for Hari Raya Aidilfitri public holiday requires early preparation, clear communication, and flexibility.

By implementing proactive strategies, employers can maintain business continuity while ensuring employees enjoy a meaningful celebration.

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