In a post on Reddit’s r/OffMyChestMY, the user admitted he “hates how normalised working overtime is in Malaysia.”
WORKING overtime has both benefits and drawbacks. It can raise productivity and help employers meet deadlines, but excessive overtime may cause stress and reduce efficiency.
In a post on Reddit’s r/OffMyChestMY, user MissionFuture568 admitted he “hates how normalised working overtime is in Malaysia.”
He goes in explaining that leaving on time often feels like a silent crime even when one has completed all his tasks.
“There’s this unspoken pressure to stay back just to be seen, not because the work actually requires it.
“People who leave on time get side-eyed, while those who stay late are praised, even if they’re just sitting around.
“Over time, it messes with your work-life balance and mental health.”
The post quickly gained traction, with many netizens sharing similar experiences.
One commenter recalled working as an intern pharmacist in New Zealand and being shocked by the workplace culture there.
After a particularly busy day, they offered to stay back to help — only to be told firmly to go home.
“My colleague insisted that I must leave work now simply because my time at work ends at 5pm. It was a firm no.”
Another user who worked with New Zealanders agreed: “Almost always sharp 9-5. Literally almost always.”
One commenter shared their frustration with employers who boast about late-working teams:
“I’ve worked for bosses who say things like ‘my marketing team leaves at 9:30–10pm almost every night. They are committed.’”
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