Macau casino operator SJM Holdings Ltd announced on Monday longer leave for new mothers or new fathers who are eligible employees of the firm. It is part of a package of improved maternity and paternity benefits that take effect from June 1, 2018, the company said in a press release.
SJM Holdings announced that the firm’s paid maternity leave will be increased from 56 days to 70 days. For male employees, the length of paid paternity leave is being increased from three days to five days, the casino company stated.
Macau’s existing labour law states that a male worker is entitled to two working days of unpaid leave from his employment due to paternity; a female worker in the private sector is entitled to 56 days of paid maternity leave.
In Monday’s release, SJM Holdings said that employees applying for maternity or paternity leave will receive a MOP1,000 (US$124) “SJM Excellence Staff Centre” gift coupon. “Employees on their birthdays will receive a MOP300 gift coupon,” said the firm.
“SJM puts employees first and is dedicated to enhancing the welfare benefits of its staff members,” the company added.
SJM Holdings is the third Macau casino operator to have announced in recent months changes to staff maternity and paternity benefits. Two of its market rivals, namely Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd and U.S.-founded Wynn Macau Ltd have made similar announcements.
In mid-February, Sands China Ltd said that it would be implementing a paid paternity leave policy, effective from February 16, for eligible employees. Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd also announced on February 27 a paid paternity leave policy, effective on April 1.
