KUALA LUMPUR: Cuepacs, wary of the World Cup football fever that grips the nation every four years, yesterday advised civil servants to ensure that they are fit to work despite watching live telecasts of the matches in the wee hours.

Cuepacs president Azih Muda said civil servants who wanted to watch matches live should get some sleep earlier in the night.

The 2014 Fifa World Cup takes place in Brazil and the first match kicks off on June 12 between Brazil and Croatia at 5pm (4am on June 13 in Malaysia), with the final being played on July 13 at 4pm (3am on July 14 in Malaysia).

Most matches will be played at 3am and 6am Malaysian time.

Azih said Muslims would also begin the Ramadan fast at the end of June, coinciding with the World Cup tournament.

“Usually, we will be lethargic during the fasting month because we have to wake up early for sahur,” he said, adding that keeping awake throughout the night would make one even more tired.

It was important to avoid getting complaints from customers or clients, he said.

“Our duty as civil servants is to provide the best service to our clients.”

Will Azih be be watching the World Cup matches?

He said he was a fan of Brazil and would like to watch his favourite Samba star, Neymar, in action. Bernama