Having a baby changes your life. But for people working in Malaysia, it also raises some down-to-earth questions:
How many days off do new moms get in 2025?
Can dads take time off too?
Will I still get my paycheck while I’m away?
If you’re an employee getting ready to have a kid—or an employer trying to follow the rules—this guide will help you understand Maternity and Paternity Leave in Malaysia (2025) and with peace of mind.
What’s Different About Time Off for New Parents in Malaysia (2025)?
The Employment (Amendment) Act 2022, which started on 1 January 2023, brought big changes to maternity and paternity leave. These rules remain in place in 2025 with no new changes announced as of June.
The main updates:
Maternity leave grew to 98 days (up from 60 days before).
Paternity leave began for the first time in the private sector giving fathers 7 days of paid time off.
Maternity Leave in Malaysia (2025)
How Long is Maternity Leave?
By 2025 working moms can take 98 days (14 weeks) of maternity leave, a change that many have greeted with enthusiasm.
Will You Receive Pay During Maternity Leave?
Yes. Your employer must give you 100% of your wages while you’re on maternity leave if:
- You make less than RM4,000/month under the Employment Act 1955, OR
- You do manual labour or domestic work, no matter how much you earn.
Many firms offer more than the bare minimum through their own HR rules.
Who Can Get Paid Maternity Leave (2025)
To qualify under the Act, you need to:
- You must work at least 90 days for the same company in the 9 months before you give birth.
- You need to have a live birth (some employers give leave for stillbirths too).
Can You Get More Time Off for Maternity Leave?
The law gives you 98 days minimum. Any extra time off without pay or more benefits depend on your job contract or what your company offers.
Paternity Leave in Malaysia (2025)
How Many Days Do Dads Get Off?
From 2023, married men working in private companies can take:
- 7 days off in a row with pay
- For up to 5 kids, no matter where they work
Eligibility Requirements for Paternity Leave (2025)
To qualify, fathers must:
- Have a legal marriage to the child’s mother.
- Have a job with the same employer for 12 months or more.
- Tell the employer when the baby is due at least 30 days before (or as as possible).
Compliance Reminder for Employers
Malaysia enforces labor laws with vigor. Employers who don’t give maternity or paternity leave might face:
- Punishments under the Employment Act
- Issues with employees that affect the company’s image
- Checks and money penalties for breaking rules
That’s why many companies are switching to digital leave management systems like Info-Tech’s HRMS.
Why Use Leave Management Software to Handle Maternity & Paternity Leave?
Managing parental leave involves more than just counting days—it’s about making sure you follow the rules, keep things clear, and plan your workforce .
With Info-Tech’s Leave Management Software, HR teams can:
- Figure out leave based on maternity/paternity laws
- Check if employees qualify right away
- Create reports that meet legal requirements
- Steer clear of mistakes that come from tracking by hand in Excel or WhatsApp
Read More: Boost Your Workplace with Leave Management Software
Comparison: Maternity vs Paternity Leave in Malaysia (2025)
Conclusion
Parental leave in Malaysia has improved and now includes more people. With 98 days for maternity leave and 7 days for paternity leave, employees now have better protection and time to focus on their families.
For employers, compliance isn’t optional. Poor leave management can lead to legal issues and dissatisfied employees.
What’s the answer? Leave management software. Info-Tech’s HRMS helps you automate parental leave, follow Malaysian labor laws, and create a workplace that supports families.
Want An Expert Advice? Contact Our Team Now!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How many days of maternity leave are Malaysian employees entitled to in 2025?
The Employment Act 1955 gives female employees 98 days of maternity leave with full pay.
Do fathers in Malaysia get paternity leave in 2025?
Yes. The law allows married male employees 7 straight days of paid paternity leave for up to 5 kids.
Is maternity leave paid in Malaysia?
Yes. The Act requires employers to pay 100% of wages to eligible employees. Some firms offer more than the basic benefits.
What if maternity leave needs to go beyond 98 days?
The Act guarantees 98 days. Any extra time off depends on what the company offers or unpaid leave arrangements.
How can employers make sure they follow maternity and paternity leave laws?
By using computer-based leave management programs like Info-Tech HRMS, which keep tabs on, check eligibility for, and report on compliance.