Impact of Work-Life Balance (WLB) on Employee Retention And Organisational Performance Across Pan-Asian Countries - Confab 360 Degree Annual Conference in Dubai, 2025

Abstract

The interplay between professional commitments and personal life has become an important point to ponder over, particularly within the diverse socio-economic landscape of Pan-Asian countries. Work-life balance (WLB) is a growing aspect that is getting recognised as a keystone for both individual employee well-being and organisational sustainability.

This study investigates the impact of WLB on employee retention and organisational performance across Pan-Asian countries, employing a comprehensive, systematic review with a qualitative comparative approach drawing from empirical studies, systematic reviews, and data-driven analysis published between 2014 and 2025. Utilising person-organisation fit and social exchange theories as conceptual frameworks, the study synthesises evidence from diverse sectors, including IT, healthcare, public administration, and hospitality.

Thematic analysis reveals that well-implemented WLB initiatives, such as flexible scheduling, supervisor support, and family-friendly policies, consistently reduce turnover intentions and enhance productivity, motivation, and overall job satisfaction, particularly when aligned with cultural norms and organisational contexts. Comparative findings highlight regional differences, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and India showing particularly strong retention and performance gains, while challenges such as resource scarcity in SMEs, ingrained overwork cultures, and uneven policy enforcement persist across Asia. Despite these advances, significant research gaps remain. Studies are predominantly cross-sectional and sector-focused, limiting understanding of the long-term WLB impact and neglecting underexplored sectors like manufacturing and agriculture.

The manuscript concludes with actionable best practices and recommendations, calling for more longitudinal and intersectional research, integrating technology-driven work models, and greater support for resource-limited organisations. This review establishes WLB as a foundational lever for organisational resilience in Asia, underlining the need for context-sensitive, evidence-based approaches to policy, practice, and future research.