ASEAN Summit, October 2025: Work From Home Recommendation

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Victor Gan

“While the work-from-home recommendation is not mandatory for the private sector, employers are encouraged to remain flexible and proactive in managing potential disruptions during the ASEAN Summit.”

The 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings are scheduled to take place from Sunday, 26th to Tuesday, 28th October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur.

The Public Services department (JPA) made an announcement last week that eligible public servants are encouraged to apply for flexible working arrangements (work-from-home) in an effort to avoid traffic congestion during the above-mentioned period.

A number of our clients have enquired on whether the above would be a mandatory consideration for their companies.

Employers are advised to take urgent notice of the following points:

Public Sector
The announcement by the JPA is only applicable to employees in the public sector. It does not include employees in the private sector.

Private Sector & Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) Recommendation
Through KESUMA’s latest press release, employers in the private sector are encouraged to consider applying some flexibility during this special occasion. Kindly note that employees may, by virtue of the Employment Act 1955 apply for flexible work arrangements. This flexibility is subject to operational requirements and Company’s approval.

While there is no strict legal obligation to change work arrangements, employers must be prepared to mitigate disruption during this period. In a similar post in May 2025, we have provided some ideas and FAQs. You can access it here: (https://www.e2consulting.com.my/e2perspectives/managing-workforce-disruptions-asean-summit-2025)