Melaka: The state government is studying a proposal to implement work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants, in line with federal efforts to address the impact of global oil supply disruptions following the West Asia crisis. Melaka state secretary Datuk Azhar Arshad said the review includes identifying suitable sectors to ensure government services remain unaffected and the public can continue dealing with departments and agencies without disruption.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Azhar Arshad emphasized the importance of the proposal by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which was announced recently. He mentioned that this concept is not new, as it was previously implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. The state is currently studying the proposal and awaiting further details to ensure effective implementation, while promoting cost savings and safeguarding employee welfare. Azhar also encouraged the private sector to adopt the arrangement to achieve broader savings during the crisis.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the government is refining flexible work arrangements, including WFH for civil servants, to mitigate the impact of global oil supply disruptions due to the West Asia crisis. The measure will be implemented in phases and selectively, while the private sector is encouraged to adopt similar arrangements, as practised by some companies and banks.

In a related development, Azhar noted that there is no immediate need for cloud seeding in Melaka, as water levels at all major dams remain stable and sufficient. However, he advised the public to use water prudently amid the prolonged hot weather expected until June. He also urged people to limit prolonged outdoor activities and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke.

Earlier, the Malaysian Meteorological Department reported that the current hot weather is expected to persist until the onset of the Southwest Monsoon in June, due to drier atmospheric conditions and lower rainfall.