Know_Your_Maternity_Leave_Entitlements_WebMob

Know your maternity leave entitlements.

Pregnancy
Article
Nov 4, 2025
2 mins

Do you know your maternity entitlements? This article touches on the basics of maternity leave and the finer details of whether you need to tell your employer that you are pregnant.

Know your maternity leave entitlements.

You can return to work no earlier than two weeks after the birth

Maternity entitlements

What is a female employee's entitlement?

Maternity leave

  • Your maternity leave starts from your delivery date
  • You can return to work no earlier than two weeks after the birth
  • With the 2022 amendments now in effect, maternity leave in Malaysia has been updated under the Employment Act to give all female employees an eligible period of not less than 98 consecutive days.
     

When to tell your boss

  • There is no legal provision in the Employment Act 1955 that you should tell your employer that you are pregnant but your employment contract may require you to inform them. Talk to your HR department if you are unsure .
  • You may find it better to tell them as soon as possible, so they know you have a good reason to attend medical appointments (you may be entitled to paid time off for antenatal appointments)
     

Paternity leave

  • Your spouse may be entitled to paid paternity leave (check with your spouse's employer)

 

Disclaimer: This content is shared for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional/medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We recommended that you always seek the advice of your healthcare professional for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition/specific situation.

References:

  1. https://www.globalcompliancenews.com/2022/04/20/malaysia-employment-amendment-bill-2021-key-amendments-to-the-employment-act-1955-06092022/
  2. https://www.nst.com.my/news/government-public-policy/2022/03/781909/approved-amendments-employment-act-covering-paternity