A recent Threads post has sparked heated discussion online after a Malaysian shared how their boss from an international company allegedly made an offensive remark about local employees’ public holidays.
The post quickly went viral, with thousands weighing in on workplace respect, cultural differences, and double standards.
Boss allegedly calls employees ‘pigs’ over time off
In the viral post, the user asked how others would feel if their boss sent a message like this in a group chat.
The screenshot showed the boss writing:
“These pigs rest so much”
“1 month 10 days off”
The comment was reportedly made in reference to Malaysia having many public holidays.
Netizens slam remark as disrespectful and unprofessional
Many Malaysians were quick to call out the statement, saying it crossed the line regardless of cultural differences.
Some pointed out that such behaviour would not be tolerated in most multinational companies.
One user wrote that the matter could even be escalated internally:
“What kind of international company allows this kind of conversation? You can report them as a whistleblower. Let HR take care of him/her.”
Another added:
“MNC don’t allow this, code of conduct. Please report.”
Some share similar experiences with foreign bosses
Others chimed in with their own experiences working under international management, especially when it comes to public holidays.
One user shared how their overseas boss was surprised by Malaysia’s number of holidays, particularly during festive periods like Hari Raya.
They explained that while the boss did not expect so many days off, employees felt it was only fair as these celebrations are part of local culture.
Debate arises over double standards
The situation also sparked a broader conversation about perceived double standards in global workplaces.
Some users pointed out that employees in Western countries often enjoy long holiday breaks such as Christmas and New Year, yet are rarely criticised for it.
One comment highlighted this sentiment:
“European offices also get so many holidays and paid leaves… but when a Southeast Asian does it, we are labelled ‘lazy’. What’s up with the double standard?”
Others defend importance of work-life balance
At the same time, some argued that time off should not be seen negatively at all.
They emphasised that public holidays are part of maintaining work-life balance, regardless of country.
Another user bluntly questioned the criticism:
“Other countries got summer break, winter break… what’s the problem?”
Malaysia’s public holidays are among the highest in the region
For context, Malaysia is known for having a relatively high number of public holidays each year, largely due to its multicultural and multi-religious society.
On average, Malaysians can have around 18 to 20 public holidays annually, depending on the state.
This includes major celebrations such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, as well as national observances like Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day.
In addition, different states observe their own holidays, meaning employees in certain areas may enjoy even more days off throughout the year.
However, many of these holidays are tied to religious and cultural celebrations, making them significant occasions rather than simply “extra days off.”
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