<h1>Work ethic expectation: executive's call for extended working hours sparks debate over work-life balance and employer norms.</h1> A senior executive urged employees to increase hours and work weekends, citing national competitiveness and a mindset of prolonged weekly labor; the company clarified the remarks as aspirational tied to national development and did not announce changes to formal employment terms, while the statements reignited public debate on work-life balance and managerial expectations.