Millennials, Gen Z prioritises work-life balance - Expert
Expert contrasted the priorities of previous generations, who valued job security, with the new generation's desire for higher salaries and a healthy work-life balance.
SHAH ALAM - Millennials (Gen Y) and Gen Z have a different approach to work compared to previous generations, according to Universiti Malaya Professor of Occupational Psychology from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Prof Dr Mohd Awang Idris.
According to Awang, the concept of 'quiet quitting' a trend gaining traction in Western countries, particularly the United States.
"Quiet quitting describes employees fulfilling only the minimum job requirements, avoiding going above and beyond.
"This idea is becoming increasingly popular in many Western countries, especially in the United States, and it is catching on.
"This trend is similar to 'lying flat' or in our language, ‘tidur terlentang’.
"It is about not becoming a work slave, sleep and rest. Just work as needed.
"Some of us see this idea very negatively when employees are told not to overdo their work, but a well-known academic, Professor Adam Grant, says that quiet quitting is not wrong.
"It is just to send a message to employers that if you do not treat your workers well or appreciate them, this is what will happen eventually.
"This is part of the work challenges worldwide," he said.
Seeking Flexibility and Higher Salaries
Awang then contrasted the priorities of previous generations, who valued job security, with the new generation's desire for higher salaries and a healthy work-life balance.
He attributed this to a culture of hedonism, which is the view that pleasure or enjoyment is the purpose of life and human action.
"Due to current trends and circulation, work flexibility has started to be implemented in Western countries.
"We need to adapt our job systems to incorporate this flexibility.
"Traditional approaches are becoming outdated. Agile work arrangements are the new norm globally," he added.