KUCHING, March 31: Civil service retirees are urged to continue contributing to the development of the state and nation particularly in terms of benefits for retired citizens.
Works Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof said as the country’s population increases, so too would its senior citizen population.
Speaking during the launching of Sarawak Retired Civil Servants Association’s annual general meeting (AGM) at a hotel here this morning, Fadillah, who is also Petra Jaya MP, said like Japan, it would be difficult for Malaysia to manage the increasing population of senior citizens in the country if no early action is taken.
“Like in Japan, they are able to occupy and manage their senior citizens well not only in terms of facilities but also programmes and activities to keep them active.
“Therefore I urge your association to continue to be actively contributing to the development of the state and nation, by working closely with us (government) by discussing and giving input on how best we can occupy and accommodate our increasing senior citizen population,” he said.
Fadillah revealed that Sarawak alone recorded about 46,073 civil servants retiring as of last year, and that the government spends an average of RM24 billion per year for pensioners nationwide, where RM1.28 billion per year were marked for Sarawak pensioners.
“You with your experience in the civil service can still contribute to the development of your community. You can organise recreational activities to inculcate a healthy lifestyle among senior citizens.
“You can also participate in your local community’s Development and Security Committee, and even guide the younger members with your vast civil service experience,” he said. — DayakDaily
