JOHOR BARU: Key discussions will be held on preserving the sanctity of Fridays, traditionally observed as the holiest day in Islam, following the shift in the state's weekend, said Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
He said adjustments to working hours, especially on Fridays, would ensure that Muslims have enough time to fulfil their religious obligations.
"Johor will officially switch its weekends to Saturday and Sunday, following the royal consent and approval of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the King of Malaysia.
"This change will impact the entire population of Johor, especially the 587,343 students and 1.948 million members of the state's workforce, most of whom are employed in the public and private sectors," he said here today.
The decision was announced by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, and will take effect from Jan 1 next year.
Onn Hafiz said discussions would be held with the state mufti and relevant state agencies to ensure the transition is thoroughly reviewed and aligned with all necessary aspects, particularly concerning Islamic practices.
He expected that religious practices would be upheld with the new weekends, as well as help reduce scheduling conflicts between the public and private sectors.
"It will facilitate cross-border activities and allow families more quality time together, besides streamlining business operations," he said.
He added that the state government would work closely with the Johor mufti and all relevant agencies to ensure the successful implementation of the new weekend structure.