Exploring workstyles: Casual, part-time, or full-time?
In 2023, over 2.4% of Malaysians sought employment opportunities, which significantly rose from the previous year. This was over half a million higher than last year. Although many job opportunities exist, some people find navigating the job market challenging.
Understanding the differences between casual, part-time, and full-time work is important. Each type has merits that affect your professional goals. So, staying well informed is essential. We offer a guide to understanding casual, part-time, and full-time employment. Here's what we'll cover:
- Difference between casual, part-time, and full-time work
- Working hours
- Salary
- Benefits
- Entitlements
- Dismissal
- Flexibility
- Overtime entitlements
- Tax considerations
- What should you consider before accepting a casual or part-time position?
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Difference between casual vs part-time vs full-time
Understanding the distinctions between casual, part-time, and full-time work arrangements is crucial in navigating the modern Malaysian job market. Each type of employment offers distinct benefits and drawbacks, impacting factors such as work hours, benefits eligibility, and overall job security.
By delineating these differences, you are able to make informed decisions about their career paths and employment preferences. Here are the key differences between casual vs part-time vs full-time.
Casual | Part-time | Full-time | |
Working Hours | Irregular and unpredictable | Less than 35 hours per week | Typically 40 hours per week |
Wages | Hourly or task-based | Hourly rate | Fixed-rate |
Benefits | Basic statutory benefits | Some benefits | Comprehensive benefits |
Entitlements | None | Prorated leave | Leave provisions |
Dismissal | Immediate termination | Termination with notice | |
Flexibility | High flexibility, ad-hoc scheduling | Moderate flexibility with set schedules | Structured schedule with standard working hours |
Overtime Entitlements | Entitled to overtime as per labour laws | ||
Tax Considerations | Taxed at the individual's applicable income tax rate |
Working hours
Working hours are the main difference between the three employment types. Here is a detailed overview of those differences:
Full-time work
A full-time worker has permanent, ongoing employment and works an average of 38 hours per week. This type of employment has a fixed schedule and guaranteed hours. Employees often follow standard eight-hour working days.
Part-time work
So, what are part-time jobs? A part-time employee works fewer weekly hours than a full-time worker. Part-time jobs typically total less than 30 hours per week. Employers often offer flexible schedules on set hours.
This may include working evenings or weekends. Employers and employees can usually adjust the terms of the offer. Here are five common examples of part-time jobs:
- Retail sales associate: These associates work in a retail store, assisting customers, stocking shelves, and processing transactions part-time.
- Waitstaff/server: These professionals serve food and beverages to customers in restaurants or cafes during peak hours or specific shifts.
- Tutor: Malaysians take education quite seriously. So, many parents opt to have private tutors for their children.
- Administrative assistant: These professionals assist with office tasks such as data entry, scheduling appointments, and answering phones on a part-time schedule.
- Delivery driver: Kuala Lumpur is bustling with malls which need stock. Thus, we rely on lorry drivers. Drivers transport goods or food items to customers' locations part-time, often with flexible hours.
Casual work
Casual jobs often have irregular and unpredictable working hours. The availability of work often determines your work hours per week. Casual positions are often short-term and project-based.
This type of employment may involve on-call responsibilities or seasonal work. Employers may ask you to work at short notice. Casual employees are also subject to a fixed-term contract.
The law says that casual employees work less than 30% of full-time hours. This is per the Malaysia Employment Act, 1955 and The Employment (Part-Time Employees) Regulations 2010.
Here are five common examples of casual employee roles:
- Event staff: Malaysia has monthly events, from celebrity tours to festivities like Chinese New Year. These casual workers help at events such as concerts, conferences, or festivals on an as-needed basis, performing tasks like ticketing, ushering, or setup.
- Freelance writer: These employees complete writing assignments or projects for various clients.
- Seasonal worker: As a seasonal worker, you can find roles in industries such as agriculture, tourism, or retail during specific seasons or peak periods.
- On-call substitute: These workers step in for absent employees in various roles such as teaching, healthcare, or hospitality on an as-needed basis.
- Casual labourer: These workers do manual labour tasks such as landscaping, moving, or construction work temporarily or occasionally as opportunities arise.
Salary
Salaries may be subject to the amount of work you do or your work hours. Here are the differences between the three employment types in the Malaysian context:
Full-time work
Full-time work usually offers a fixed salary. This provides a stable and consistent wage-based offer. Full-time employees often qualify for annual salary increases.
The security of a full-time job contributes to your financial growth over time, a common feature in Malaysia's job market.
Part-time work
Part-time employees in Malaysia often earn hourly rates. Or, they get a share of the full-time salary. A part-time employee works under a service contract with an employer.
Their work hours are between 30% - 70% of that of a full-time worker with that same employer. The income of part-time employees varies based on the number of hours they work. Part-time workers get fewer annual salary increases. This reflects the flexible nature of their roles in the Malaysian workforce.
Casual work
Casual jobs in Malaysia usually offer hourly rates. The average hourly rate for freelancers in Malaysia ranges from RM12 to RM30 per hour. Casuals have no set hours of work. They usually work irregular hours, not a fixed roster. In some instances, casual workers' earnings depend on their output.
Irregular hours cause casual workers' income to fluctuate. This is a common challenge for those in casual work. In some cases, they may get higher hourly rates than full-time workers. This is to make up for the lack of job security that casual employee arrangements typically have.
Benefits
There are a few basic differences in benefits between the three employment types:
Full-time work
Full-time work usually comes with comprehensive benefits tailored to Malaysian standards and regulations. Benefits might include health insurance and retirement plans. It also includes annual leave. These benefits follow Malaysia's Employment Act.
Full-time workers often get bonuses and other perks. They get paid for public holidays too. Malaysian labour laws require this. This enhances their compensation package and ensures financial security in the Malaysian context.
Part-time work
Part-time employees in Malaysia often have few benefits. They have less than their full-time co-workers. In some cases, the employer may offer part-time workers no benefits. The benefits may vary based on the company's adherence to Malaysian employment regulations.
Some companies may give part-time employees a scaled-down benefits package. It offers partial health insurance, unlike the full coverage for full-time co-workers. However, part-time roles in Malaysia have limitations. They still provide valuable opportunities for flexible work. But, they operate within the framework of Malaysian labour laws.
Casual work
Casual employees in Malaysia receive few or no benefits as a standard. In some cases, casual workers may get some benefits. However, this often happens after a specific duration of service, as set by Malaysian labour rules.
Any coverage provided is usually less comprehensive than the benefits full-time workers get. This reflects the temporary nature of casual jobs in the Malaysian market and its rules.
Entitlements
Under employment law, workers and employees are different. Their entitlements depend on this difference. Entitlements vary across the different types of employment:
Full-time work
Full-time work generally entitles you to all the benefits your workplace offers. This must adhere to Malaysian labour laws and regulations. This includes full coverage. It provides access to many rights. Malaysia's Employment Act mandates these rights.
Full-time workers in Malaysia enjoy strong legal protections. The country's labour laws outline these protections.
This contributes to a stable and secure work environment within the Malaysian context. For example, leave entitlements include paid annual leave. They also include unpaid compassionate, community service, and domestic violence leave. Malaysian employment regulations stipulate these entitlements.
Part-time work
Part-time employees often receive prorated benefits. These benefits reflect their lower number of hours compared to full-time positions. Part-time employees have fewer entitlements than their full-time co-workers. This is as required by Malaysian labour laws.
Part-time workers in Malaysia usually get few benefits. They also have few workplace rights. But, some employers may offer part-timers an annual leave allowance. They do this within the framework of Malaysian employment rules.
Casual
Casual employees have limited entitlements. Benefits often depend on the hours you work in such a position. As a casual employee, you may not have the same level of security as your full-time colleagues. Casual employee contracts may also be subject to variations in demand or business needs.
Dismissal
Dismissal procedures and security of jobs differ across various types of employment:
Full-time work
Full-time contracts generally provide better security. In dismissing full-time employees, employers usually need a just cause and must give notice periods.
There are strict rules for termination procedures, offering full-time workers more excellent stability. This also protects you against arbitrary or unfair dismissal.
Part-time work
Part-time jobs in Malaysia may have less security than full-time jobs. Dismissal procedures for part-time employees vary. In some cases, employers may more easily terminate contracts for part-time jobs than full-time ones.
This is due to the more stringent rules surrounding full-time contracts. This difference in security may be a factor to consider if you want to work part-time.
Casual work
Casual loading generally offers the least security among employment types. Malaysian companies often employ casual workers temporarily. As a result, dismissal is more common.
Casual jobs are also likely to have no notice periods. You risk changes in demand, seasonal fluctuations, or short-term project needs. These factors lead to a higher chance of dismissal.
Flexibility
Generally, flexibility in working hours varies based on your employment agreement. Here are some key differences between the three employment types in a typical setting:
Full-time employees
Full-time work has limited flexibility in working hours. Permanent employees often stick to a standard schedule. Your employer may allow some flexibility for personal needs. Any flexibility usually depends on your company's policies. Flexible working hours allowances usually vary between workplaces and industries.
Part-time employees
Part-time work offers more flexibility in scheduling. This gives you greater control over your work hours.
This flexibility is a crucial feature of part-time employment. It contributes to a better work-life balance. You can usually adjust your work schedule to your commitments or preferences.
Casual Employees
You usually have flexible working arrangements as a casual employee. Companies often give you the option to choose when to work. You can request flexible working arrangements. This flexibility is a defining benefit of casual working hours.
Casual workers generally have no firm commitment to their employer and are not obliged to commit to all work proposed by them. But it may also come with the drawback of needing to work at irregular times of the day. Casual positions depend on the immediate needs or demands of the employer.
Overtime entitlements
Overtime entitlements can vary across different types of employment:
- Full-time work: In some cases, full-timers get overtime pay. In others, the company may offer you time off instead of paying for overtime hours. Overtime is usually subject to the number of extra hours you work beyond your regular schedule.
- Part-time work: Part-time employees may also receive overtime pay. Overtime payments are for hours you work beyond your agreed part-time schedule. The specifics of overtime policies may vary between employers.
- Casual: Overtime pay may apply to casual employees. But, company policies can vary. Your entitlement to overtime pay may depend on your work arrangements and employment agreement.
Tax considerations
Tax considerations differ across the three types of employment:
- Full-time work: A full-time worker usually has regular tax deductions. Deductions are in the form of income taxes. Employers withhold full-time tax deductions from your paychecks.
- Part-time work: Part-time employees generally receive similar tax treatment to full-time workers. But, the tax liability may be lower than in a full-time job due to your lower income.
- Casual: If you're a casual employee, paying taxes may be your responsibility. Employers usually do not withhold taxes from your salary. The tax implications can change due to the irregular nature of your income. If you choose casual employment, you may need to manage your tax obligations by yourself.
What should you consider before accepting a casual or part-time position?
Accepting a casual or part-time position needs careful deliberation. This ensures the job aligns with your goals, commitments, and needs. Here are some considerations to think about before taking a casual or part-time role:
Life goals and commitments
A part-time or casual role should align with your long-term life goals. Knowing how the role fits into your broader life plan is essential. Identify personal commitments that need consideration, such as your responsibilities or educational pursuits.
Lifestyle choices
Understanding how a job might impact your lifestyle is essential. Factors can include the flexibility of a role and its financial implications. Focus on understanding how the job's flexibility aligns with your chosen lifestyle. Assess whether the role can meet your expenses and goals.
Career progression
It's also important to consider your career progression. Having a clear picture of your end goal can help you decide. Check that the job offer follows the career path you want. It's also helpful to identify potential avenues for growth. Make sure to widen your view of the company and the position on offer to the industry.
Work-life balance
Maintaining a healthy balance between your professional and personal lives is essential. Some part-time and casual jobs have a well-balanced work-life relationship. But there's no guarantee that these employment types will suit you.
Always take a close look at the contract and job offer. Ensure you understand how the nature of the role might impact your work-life balance.
Identify the demands of the job. Make sure that the role aligns with your preferences. Work out whether the job allows you to separate work from personal time. These considerations apply to both part-time and casual roles.
Skill enhancement and development
Assess whether the job offers opportunities for improvement. Part-time and casual roles that enable you to enhance and develop your skills are rare finds. Always ask the employer if they provide staff development programs when you apply for a job. Enhancing your skills can help you progress in your career and demand higher pay.
Job satisfaction and motivation
Landing a fulfilling job is the goal of job seekers. This need also applies to part-time and casual employees. Job satisfaction and the motivation to work should be the standard for employment.
This is why you should always look for employer reviews. Check that the employer satisfies and motivates their employees. Always opt for companies that support employees' passion and interests.
Networking and professional connections
Look for jobs that encourage networking and professional connections. You can use these connections as building blocks to expand and grow your career in Malaysia. Companies can help expand your connections for job opportunities.
It's also important to consider the quality of your connections. Look for networking opportunities that align with your goals, passions, and interests.
Organisational culture and values
Finding companies where the culture and values align with yours can be challenging. But this is important to your motivation and fulfilment. Always check reviews to get a grasp of the company's culture. It's important to assess how the employer treats full-timers.
Assessing this can help you understand how the company may treat part-time and casual employees as well.
Health and well-being
Understanding a job's impact on your health and well-being is important. Make sure to assess the stress level and demand the offer entails. Look for jobs that respect rest days.
While not a common offer, consider looking for roles that provide wellness breaks. This includes sick or paid leave, mental health breaks, and rest days.
Wrapping up
Many people know that casual employment in Malaysia is flexible. But, it may lack the security of traditional employment. Part-time work in Malaysia offers a work-life balance. It often comes with benefits tailored to Malaysian labour laws.
Full-time employment in Malaysia provides stability. It has fixed hours and comprehensive benefits. It ensures security and well-being for employees.
Consider aligning jobs with your life goals and commitments. Understand the financial and lifestyle impact of the job. Seek jobs that promote career progression, skill development, and work-life balance.
As you embark on your career, make intentional choices that align with your vision. Explore opportunities that meet your needs and contribute to your growth.
FAQs
- Should I choose casual or part-time work?
The choice between casual and part-time work depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Casual employment often provides flexibility, while part-time roles have a more predictable number of hours. Consider your financial needs, work-life balance, and career goals. - What are part-time hours in Malaysia?
Part-time hours in Malaysia can vary based on the employer and industry. Generally, a part-time employee works fewer hours than a standard full-time employee. The specific range can vary from a few hours a day to a set number of days per week, depending on the employer's policies. - What are the disadvantages of being a casual worker?
One disadvantage for casual employees is the lack of security and benefits. This is in comparison to a permanent or full-time employee. Casual employees may have irregular income. They may receive limited access to benefits like health insurance or paid leave.
They can also be more vulnerable to changes in the employer's needs. - Should I choose full-time or part-time jobs?
The choice depends on your personal and professional goals. Full-time positions offer more stability and benefits and a consistent income. Part-time roles offer flexibility but may have fewer benefits.
The choice depends on your personal and professional goals. Full-time positions offer more stability and benefits and a consistent income. Part-time roles offer flexibility but may have fewer benefits.
Consider your financial needs, job and life preferences, and long-term career goals. If you’re looking for part-time jobs, check out Jobstreet.
