A Chinese tech company has terminated the employment of an individual identified only by his surname, Xu, after discovering that he spent his two-week sick leave on a tropical island rather than recuperating at home. The employee had previously applied for two weeks of paid leave but was denied by his manager due to staffing requirements.
Xu's actions have also cost him a 620,000-Chinese yuan (approximately $90,000) compensation which had been earlier awarded to him for violating labor laws. A labor tribunal ruled that Xu's employer should pay the substantial sum; however, the district court upheld its decision as it believed Xu acted against doctor's advice to take bed rest.
In response to these events and rulings, Xu filed a counter-appeal stating that he did not deceive his former employer because he owned a flat in Hainan and traveled via plane and high-speed rail during his time off work.
The case drew attention from both local media outlets and legal professionals who weighed in with their opinions about workplace policies surrounding sick leaves. Zhang Weiwen, an attorney specializing in labor law commented:
As this situation unfolds further through legal channels, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proper communication between employees and employers while emphasizing adherence to medical advice during times of illness.