By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Oct 12: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced a bonus of one and a half months salary for Sarawak’s civil servants.
He made the announcement at the Special Budget Meeting with Sarawakian lawmakers held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching today where he also unveiled Sarawak Budget 2022.
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and Economic Planning Minister, said Covid-19 has impacted Sarawak and its economy in a unprecedented, severe and unexpected manner where the Sarawak government’s fiscal intervention via Sarawak Budget 2022 was designed to mitigate any permanent adverse effects of the pandemic on the people and the economy.
“Sarawak Budget 2022 will enable us to create conducive conditions for economic recovery and growth, which will open up new business opportunities, create jobs and bring about multiplier effects to the domestic economy,” said Abang Johari.
Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and the introduction of Sarawak Budget 2022, he said if Sarawakians were to stay united, regardless of race, religion and political affiliation, he was confident that Sarawak will be able to address the daunting challenge of rejuvenating the domestic economy successfully.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation and thanks to all parties involved, especially the frontliners, medical and security personnel, State and Federal civil servants, the media, and all parties who have worked hard in carrying out their respective duties in combating the Covid-19 pandemic.
“In appreciation of the service rendered by civil servants in managing the government machinery, especially in dealing with this pandemic, I am very pleased to announce the provision of one and a half months of special financial assistance for Sarawak’s civil servants.
“Not to be forgotten, Federal civil servants in Sarawak will also receive special financial assistance amounting to RM500 each as an appreciation from the Sarawak government for their contributions,” said Abang Johari. — DayakDaily
