Malaysia’s main Public Service union is calling for the early payment of salaries this month so workers can prepare for end-of-Ramadan celebrations.
President of the Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs), Adnan Mat said the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, or the Festival of Sweets, was one of the most important dates on the Muslim calendar and was expected to begin on 22 April.
“Cuepacs is confident that the Government is capable of implementing this early payment as it isn’t a complex process,” Mr Adnan (pictured) said.
Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim was reported to have said that the Government would consider paying the Public Service’s salary earlier to prepare for the celebrations.
Mr Adnan said Cuepacs appreciated the Prime Minister’s concern as the early salaries would be a relief to Public Servants, many of whom would be returning to their home towns for the holiday.
“With the early salary they can buy things sooner, rather than in the last week of Ramadan,” he said.
This follows the announcement that the Penang State Government has approved a special Eid al-Fitr assistance allowance of three quarters of a month’s salary or a minimum of RM1,500 ($A509) to its Public Servants.
Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow said the aid would also be given to those who worked for Local Authorities and State Statutory Bodies.
Mr Chow said the special aid was a sign of the State Government’s appreciation of its Public Servants’ unwavering contributions and commitment.
Kuala Lumpur, 12 April 2023
