Nurses weigh early retirement as 45-hour workweek takes a toll

KUALA TERENGGANU - The increased workload following the implementation of a 45-hour weekly shift system is prompting many nurses to consider early retirement before reaching the age of 60.

A nurse who wished to be known as Siti, 49, said the new directive under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) has placed a heavy burden on her.

Effective December 1 last year, the system requires ward nurses to work an additional three hours per week.

"I have been thinking about early retirement since the workload has increased and the shift schedule leaves me with little time for myself or my family.

"The unpredictable working hours, especially under the 45-hour weekly shift system, add pressure because I now have to pay more for childcare at night.

"Previously, childcare costs were around RM300 per child, but now they have risen to RM500 for just one child. When overtime is required, the cost automatically increases," she told Sinar.

Sinar previously reported that excessive work pressure and extreme emotional fatigue are among the reasons nurses, particularly those in government hospitals, are opting for early retirement instead of continuing their careers until 60.

Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia Senior Lecturer in the Counseling Programme, Dr Rezki Perdani Sawai said this issue is not unique to Malaysia but is part of a global trend.

Citing a study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, she stated that early retirements among nurses have increased, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, another nurse, Lina, 42, said she has also started considering early retirement due to the difficulty of balancing her career and family responsibilities.

"As a mother of three, dividing my time between work and family is challenging. The stress from work sometimes carries over to home, affecting my relationship with my children.

"The feeling that the salary is not commensurate with the workload also plays a role in my decision," she said.

However, she said she might reconsider if changes, such as more flexible working hours, were introduced.

"Some colleagues have already submitted their resignation letters after receiving job offers in Singapore, where the work schedule is more structured and less stressful," she revealed.

She also believes the retirement policy for nurses at 60 needs to be reviewed, considering the physical and mental challenges they face.

"Many aspects of this policy need revision, particularly regarding leave entitlements and compensation rates for those who opt for early retirement compared to mandatory retirement," she added.