Puasa 2026 in Malaysia: How Many Days Left & What Employers Should Prepare

Puasa (Ramadan) is one of the most important months for Muslim employees in Malaysia. Every year, employers and HR teams must plan ahead, especially for working hours, rest time, workload management, and leave schedules.

As Ramadan approaches, it’s important for employers to understand when Puasa 2026 is expected to begin and what adjustments need to be made at the workplace. Fasting affects working hours, employee focus, energy levels, and operational planning. Preparing early helps maintain productivity while supporting employee well-being.

How Many Days Until Ramadan 2026?

Based on the estimated Islamic calendar:

Puasa 2026 is expected to begin on 19 February 2026.
The official date will be confirmed through moon sighting by JAKIM closer to Ramadan.

This means employers still have a few months (depending on today’s date) to prepare policies, schedules, manpower planning, and communication for the fasting month.

Reminder: Ramadan dates may shift by 1 day because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle.

When Will Malaysia Start Puasa in 2026?

According to the projected Hijri calendar:

1 Ramadan 2026 is predicted to fall on 18 or 19 February 2026.
Fasting officially begins the next morning, after the national TV announcement by Penyimpan Mohor Besar Raja-Raja.

Estimated Ramadan 2026 Timeline

Start of Puasa: 19 February 2026
Expected Hari Raya Aidilfitri: 20–21 March 2026

Employers should keep in mind that the dates may change by one day after the official moon sighting.

What Employers & HR Should Prepare for Puasa 2026

Ramadan affects employees’ energy levels, concentration, and working habits. HR must plan early to maintain smooth operations.

Adjust Working Hours (If Needed)

There is no legal requirement in Malaysia to shorten working hours during Ramadan, but many companies offer flexibility to support Muslim employees:

Slightly Later Start Times

Employees who fast may need more rest in the morning, so starting work a bit later helps them manage their energy better.

Earlier Finishing Times

Allowing employees to end work earlier helps them prepare for iftar and reduce fatigue towards the end of the day.

Longer Prayer Breaks

Some employees may need extra time for prayers during Ramadan, especially for Zohor and Asar.

Optional Remote Work Days

Working from home on selected days can help fasting employees manage rest, avoid long commutes, and stay productive.

Flexible arrangements can help maintain productivity while supporting staff who are fasting.

Manage Lunch & Break Policies

Employees who fast do not take normal lunch breaks, but they may need:

Short rest breaks
Time for prayers
A quiet space to rest

HR can consider allowing brief breaks for energy management, especially towards the late afternoon.

Plan Manpower & Leave Requests

During Ramadan, employers can expect an increase in:

Early Leave Requests before Iftar

Some employees may request to leave slightly earlier to prepare for breaking fast with their families.

Leave Applications during the Last 10 Nights

Many Muslims prioritise worship during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, so HR may receive more leave requests.

Leave for Travel before Hari Raya

Employees travelling back to their hometowns often apply for leave a few days before Hari Raya to avoid traffic and prepare for the celebration.

Tips for Employers for Planning Manpower

Ask employees to submit leave applications early, ideally January or early February 2026.
Prepare shift rotations to avoid manpower issues.
Ensure essential roles remain covered.

Support Employee Well-Being

Fasting affects employees differently. Employers can support by:

Avoiding heavy physical tasks during daytime
Minimizing long meetings (especially late afternoon)
Allowing flexible prayer breaks
Being considerate of energy levels

A supportive environment helps maintain morale and productivity.

Communicate Ramadan Policies Early

Send a memo or announcement at least 1 month before Ramadan, covering:

Working hour adjustments
Break times
Meeting guidelines
Leave procedures
Shift arrangements

Clear communication reduces confusion and ensures a smoother workflow throughout the month.

FAQs

Do companies need to reduce working hours during Ramadan?

No. There is no legal requirement, but many employers provide flexibility.

Can fasting employees request extra rest breaks?

Yes, based on company policy. Short breaks for prayer or rest are common.

Will shift schedules need to change during Ramadan?

Possibly. Many employers adjust shifts to support employee energy levels and operations.

Should HR expect more leave applications?

Yes, especially during the last 10 nights of Ramadan and before Hari Raya.

Do Ramadan policies apply to remote or hybrid employees?

Yes. Employers should still allow prayer breaks and flexible hours when appropriate.

Need Part-Time Staff for Raya 2026?

We’ll help you find the right people who vibe with your goals and grow with you.

Post your job on Maukerja, Ricebowl, and Epicareer with AJobThing today.