KUCHING: Pensioners are advised to come forward and give their feedback to the government on their needs and expectations, given the rise of the ageing population in the country.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said this would enable the government – both at state and federal level – to enhance the necessary infrastructures and facilities tailored to their needs.
“This is an area that should be looked into as it can provide the pensioners with an avenue to conduct their activities and at the same time, it enables them to contribute their experience and knowledge to the community,” he spoke at the Sarawak Government Pensioners Association (PPKS)’s 46th annual general meeting (AGM) at a hotel here yesterday.
Adding on, Fadillah said the pensioners could conduct short courses for non-governmental organisations (NGO) as a way for them to generate incomes for their respective associations.
He believed that with their vast knowledge on administration – specifically in the government sector – these courses would attract the public, especially the NGOs.
Fadillah also said it was vital for pensioners to continue their active lifestyle by picking up hobbies or be involved in the village safety and development committee (JKKK) – also another means for them to share their valuable knowledge with the community.
“This will help the JKKK to be more efficient and ensure that their neighbourhood would be safer and more comfortable for living,” said Fadillah.
On another note, the minister said the federal government spent RM24 billion on pension funds last year – for Sarawak, a total of RM1.3 billion had been paid out to 46,072 pensioners.
“This goes to show the government’s appreciation of the contributions from the pensioners, who have played an instrumental role in the development of our state and country,” he added.
Meanwhile, PPKS president Julaihi Ismail stated that the association currently has 7,600 members across the state.
“We have 15 branches throughout Kuching, Lundu, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, Miri and Limbang,” he said, adding that their membership has been growing since early last year.
He attributed this to the various roadshows being held in Lundu, Serian and Sri Aman, which helped a lot in raising awareness of the roles of PPKS and also registering new members.