8 October 2026
Paternity Leave in Malaysia: 7 Days Under the Act
Married male employees in Malaysia can take 7 consecutive days of paternity leave. See who qualifies, the notice you must give and how it is paid.
Free tool: Annual Leave Calculator →
Since 1 January 2023, the Employment Act 1955 gives eligible married male employees 7 consecutive days of paid paternity leave for each confinement of their spouse. This was introduced by the Employment (Amendment) Act 2022.
Paternity leave rules at a glance
The table summarises the conditions. Your contract can offer more than the Act, but not less.
| Topic | What the Act says |
|---|---|
| Length | 7 consecutive days for each confinement |
| Who qualifies | Married male employees |
| Service condition | At least 12 months with the same employer immediately before the leave starts |
| Notice | At least 30 days before the expected delivery, or as early as possible after the birth if early |
| Pay | Ordinary rate of pay |
| Limit | Up to five confinements, regardless of the number of spouses |
Paternity pay
Paternity leave is paid at your ordinary rate of pay, so you should not lose salary for the 7 days.
The 12-month service condition
You must have been employed by the same employer for at least 12 months immediately before the paternity leave starts. If you joined recently, check whether your company policy gives paternity leave earlier than the Act requires.
Notice to your employer
You must tell your employer about your wife's pregnancy at least 30 days before the expected delivery, or as early as possible after the birth if the baby arrives early.
Who this page covers
This is a general summary for private-sector employees under the Employment Act. Sabah and Sarawak have their own Labour Ordinances, and government employees follow public-service circulars, so those rules can differ.
Frequently asked questions
How many days of paternity leave do you get in Malaysia?
7 consecutive days for each confinement of your spouse, under the Employment Act 1955 as amended in 2022.
Is paternity leave paid in Malaysia?
Yes, it is paid at your ordinary rate of pay.
Who is eligible for paternity leave?
Married male employees who have been with the same employer for at least 12 months immediately before the leave starts and who gave the required notice.
How much notice do I need to give for paternity leave?
At least 30 days before the expected delivery, or as early as possible after the birth if the baby arrives early.