WORKING from home is now a permanent option for staff at Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), said group CEO Jalil Rasheed. 

He said the remote work policy would be extended beyond the movement control order period. 

“We defied all odds working well past two months virtually. Nothing stopping us from adopting flexibility permanently,” he said.

“We have made great strides in using technology, virtual meetings and digital signature, so this momentum must continue even when staff return.”

He said this is part of the strategic plan that PNB had unveiled last week, which called for an organisational transformation. 

“People and culture are a huge part of it. So this initiative fits right in.”

This means that the company is letting its employees choose how and where they want to work, he said.

He said employees will be equipped with the technology to work remotely. They will be required to download the MySejahtera app to ensure they are traceable.

“We will also issue guidelines or tips to people managers on how to manage remote or split teams, answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) and have dedicated people assigned to them when they have queries.”

For now, the remote work policy will remain until the end of the month to make it more convenient for employees to prepare for Hari Raya.

Jalil said many of the employers have schoolgoing children.

“We’ll be fluid with it to (so that we can) sync when school reopens. And being so close to Hari Raya, it’s best if everybody stays home and returns after (the festivities),” he said.

Starting next month, the return to the office will take place in staggered batches over three months to prevent crowding.

“Those who are doing well from home can continue doing so. Of course anybody who wants to return to the office, they are welcome to,” he said.

He said PNB will next week introduce flexitime for employees to choose the hours they want to work.

“They can choose to work from home when they want. The key is trust, and keeping your boss and colleagues informed. And being reachable.” – Bernama, May 9, 2020.