PPKS looking to include those who have up to three more years of service left
Saidi Wahie
KUCHING: The Sarawak Government Pensioners Association (PPKS) is looking to open membership to those who have up to three more years of service before retirement.
Currently, only those who have officially retired are eligible to register.
In a bid to attract more members, PPKS would table the proposal at its 39th annual general meeting (AGM) at the civic centre here on March 23.
“Under this proposal, those who are retiring could register with the association and become associate members. Once they are officially retired, they would automatically become full-fledged members right at the dot of their retirement date,” PPKS president Saidi Wahie told a press conference.
“During their period as associate members, unfortunately, they will not be able to enjoy full benefits as the others. They cannot become members of the board, the committee and also they do not have the right to vote. However, all these privileges will be given once they become full members.”
He added that once the proposal is approved, the amendment to the constitution would be submitted to the Registrar of Societies (ROS).
A motion to establish a cooperative would also be tabled, along with a proposal to extend the exco committee’s term from the current two years to three.
“This would give exco members more time to implement and oversee their projects. Our current two-year period is quite short and over the years we faced problems where changes in committee members too soon upset some projects as the new exco were not interested in it.”
Saidi reminded all members to attend the AGM, adding that PPKS would also hold registration for new members during the meeting.
“I hope many would be interested to join the association especially those in the professional group. We are trying to register as many new members as possible. Also, we are hoping for a good attendance from the members.”
Meanwhile, PPKS will organise a trip to Beijing next month. Those interested can contact 082-241353 for details. Other programmes planned for 2011 include the ‘Green Earth’ course in May, which will focus on planting vegetables.
“Apart from being a way to kill their time, most of our members use these newly acquired skills to get extra income by selling their vegetables. Some however, see it as a healthy activity while keeping the harvests for private consumption,” said Said.