BUKIT MERTAJAM, Feb 23 — The early RM2,000 and RM1,000 incentive payments to civil servants and government retirees have brought relief to these groups, especially with the holy month of Ramadan approaching.
Zamrud Laili Mohd Mustap, 36, a government agency officer, expressed her gratitude for the concern shown by the Madani government, as she did not expect the aid to reach RM2,000 this year.
“In these challenging times, we need to spend wisely. As a mother of three school-going children, I will use this incentive to prepare for the upcoming 2024 school session and Ramadan,” she told Bernama.
Meanwhile, Mohd Shahril Ahmad, 39, said such assistance reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the people’s needs in facing economic challenges.
“The amount received this year is the highest in my 11 years of service. However, amidst our joy, we must be mindful and not overspend.
“Next month, Muslims will begin fasting, followed by Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and those with school-going children will have additional expenses. As for me, even though I have not been blessed with children, there are other expenses to manage and this aid helps alleviate my burden,” he said.
For government retirees, the RM1,000 incentive payment proves the government values their contributions to the nation.
Expressing her gratitude, Che Norsiah Othman, 61, said she will make the best use of this assistance in managing her daily expenses.
“I still receive a pension, so I will save some of this money for emergencies,” said the former school clerical assistant.
During Budget 2024’s tabling on October 13 last year, the government agreed to grant a RM2,000 Early Incentive Payment to all civil servants in Grade 56 and below, including contract appointees.
A RM1,000 incentive payment will also be disbursed to all in the Jawatan Utama Sektor Awam (Jusa) grade, uniformed personnel, as well as government retirees, including pensionable and non-pensionable veterans.
These payments have been disbursed today.
— Bernama
