KUCHING: The government always recognise the contributions and sacrifices made by retired civil servants in supporting the nation’s progress and providing efficient delivery services to the people.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the civil service was the backbone of the country, regardless of their positions, every one of them play an important role.
“Without them, the government’s policies will not be able to be implemented or delivered and our promises to the people cannot be fulfilled,” he said.
Therefore, the welfare and wellbeing of pensioners were among the concerns of the government.
Each year, billions of ringgit in the national budget was allocated to paying pensions to retired employees in the public service.
“Apart from the monthly income from their pension, they also continue to enjoy various benefits, including medical and healthcare.
They were also not left out during some special announcements such as bonuses,” he said.
Speaking at the launch of the 46th General Meeting of the Sarawak Pensioners Association here on Saturday, Fadillah said he appreciated the commitment and long service of the pensioners, be it at the state or federal level.
On an average, about RM24 billion was spent for payout of pensions.
Sarawak alone, he said, recorded about 46,000 pensioners with more than RM1.2 billion paid last year. The figure was expected to increase in the following years.
“Sometimes, people compare the salary they earn in Malaysia with what they will be getting in other countries.
"However, don’t forget the benefits they enjoy after retirement. This is something not every country can offer,” he said.
Apart from that, programmes and activities designed for the pensioners were also being held across the country.
“I would like to advise retired officers to continue to keep themselves occupied with beneficial activities or hobbies.
"We want the elderly community to stay active physically and mentally. Some of them can even contribute their knowledge and experience to the society through different platforms and channels,” Fadillah said.
The Petra Jaya member of parliament also announced RM10,000 grant for the association to organise more events.