Tengrinews.kz – During a working visit to the Kostanay region, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov visited factories, where meetings were held with the management and staff of enterprises. The prospects for the socio-economic development of the region, building up human resources, and solving infrastructure problems were discussed. Attention was also paid to the issue of a single time zone
According to the speakers, the issue of introducing a single time zone had been raised by residents of the Kostanay region before, as the previous time zone did not correspond to natural time. Thus, the decision to switch to a single time zone made everyday life easier. In this regard, the meeting participants spoke in support of a single time zone.
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, in a conversation with residents, drew attention to the fact that the positive effect of natural time on the health and well-being of citizens has been scientifically proven. In 2017, a group of American scientists was awarded the Nobel Prize for their study of human circadian rhythms, which confirmed that living in accordance with natural time is most beneficial for health. Based on this work and other scientific research, the Barcelona Declaration was adopted in 2022, signed by scientists and government officials from more than 80 countries.
The head of government thanked the residents of Kostanay region and all Kazakhstanis for their understanding and support of this important decision.
"The decision was made based on very deep scientific research conducted not only in Kazakhstan but also abroad. In 2017, a group of American scientists was awarded the Nobel Prize for their study of human circadian rhythms. In this study, scientists proved that it is best and healthier for a person to live in his natural time. Therefore, now progressive countries of the world are striving to switch to a natural time zone. For Kazakhstan, the natural time zone is the one we live in now, UTC + 5. Previously, you know, we were in another - UTC + 6. At one time, the country was transferred by directive to a zone that was not natural for us. Now, on the contrary, we have brought the time in line with solar cycles. I understand that the transition to a single time zone may cause discomfort to someone. The body gradually gets used to it. This decision was made. If there are any inconveniences in the regions, we need to work with infrastructure, lighting, and organizing a flexible schedule, which our labor legislation allows. We will continue to resolve all these issues,” the Prime Minister emphasized.
During the meeting with the plant's staff, issues of working conditions and other support measures were also raised in anticipation of the upcoming Year of Working Professions announced by the Head of State.
Recall: On the night of February 29 to March 1, Kazakhstan switched to a single time zone. Three months later, on June 7, a petition to cancel the time change collected the required 50 thousand signatures.
Court made a decision on time zone in Kazakhstan
