A pioneering working from home programme carried out by the Works Ministry in Malaysia has been deemed successful, according to the minister, Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor.

Some 39 ministry staff were chosen to participate in the experiment, which began on January 1st this year. The objective of the pilot project was to see whether staff productivity could be increased.

Initially there were some teething problems with the programme, said Shaziman. Some workers complained of feeling lonely at home and it was reported that one spouse wasn't happy about her husband working at home alone with the maid.

However, the final findings were that those taking part were satisfied and pleased with the scheme. The ministry was also happy with the results: "The productivity levels of draughtsmen and quantity surveyors who worked at home increased to 90% and 100% on average respectively." The results also revealed that the new programme helped to bring down operational costs in the relevant departments by approximately RM8,000 (approximately £1,600) with a reduction of utility and office rental costs.

It has been decided by the government to extend the programme.