Malaysians second most vacation-deprived in the world

Many Malaysians say they would rather take a pay hike over more vacation days. – Reuters pic, March 1, 2016.Malaysians ranked the second most vacation-deprived worldwide due to their willingness to sacrifice off days for a higher salary, according to a survey by online travel site Expedia.

Taking first place among the most holiday-hungry were the Emiratis in the UAE, while Singapore came in at third place, the 2015 Vacation Deprivation survey revealed.

On the other end of the spectrum, Europeans and Brazilians were shown to be enjoying the most holidays.

Out of 356 respondents from Malaysia, up to 72.7% said they felt "very or somewhat" vacation-deprived, but a majority admitted they would rather take a pay hike over more vacation days.

"Over 50% of respondents shared that their bosses are supportive of them taking vacations.

"However, it might come as no surprise about the decision by Malaysians to have more cash in hand supersede the need for holidays, with nearly seven out of 10 respondents sharing they would rather take a pay raise than have more vacation days," Jonty Neal, CEO of AirAsiaExpedia, said in a press release.

Malaysians work an average of 39.2 hours a week out of which 38.5% work between 41 and 50 hours a week, according to the survey.

In the report, Malaysians were also seen to favour short trips and long weekends away (66.1%) over one long vacation (19.5%).

The top reasons for not going on vacation include a packed work schedule (38.2%), difficulties in coordinating with travel partner(s) (29.9%) and lack of funds (32.9%).

To gain an extra leave day, Malaysians were willing to give up watching television while Singaporeans would sacrifice junk food and Thais their alcohol. – March 1, 2016.