Indonesia’s Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises has introduced a voluntary four-day work week, allowing eligible employees to complete their 40-hour work requirement in four days, up to twice a month, reports The Economic Times. The initiative, aimed at improving work-life balance and reducing stress, follows a successful six-month pilot.

Employees who are unable to meet the 40-hour threshold will continue with the standard five-day work schedule. Deputy Minister for Human Resource Management, Technology, and Information, Tedi Bharata, stated that participation requires approval and is still under evaluation. While the initiative is currently limited to the ministry, it may be extended to state-owned enterprises in the future.

The programme, first introduced in March 2023, aims to enhance work-life balance and reduce employee stress, particularly among younger workers. Minister Erick Thohir cited internal surveys showing strong support for the initiative, noting that 70% of younger employees face mental health challenges. He clarified that the policy is not about reducing productivity but offering flexibility to those meeting work-hour requirements. While it remains unclear if Indonesia will expand the policy to other ministries, its trial signals a growing shift toward alternative work arrangements to support employee well-being.