Previously, we shared the statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that there will not be any Hari Raya Aidilfitri bonus for civil servants this year because the “bonus” had already been given earlier this year, referring to an RM2,000 incentive given in February.
Well, despite the statement last week, the Prime Minister today announced that the government has agreed to grant an RM500 special Aidilfitri aid to civil servants for the festive season.
RM500 special Aidilfitri aid for Grade 56 civil servants and below
Speaking during the monthly gathering with staff of the Prime Minister’s Departments in Putrajaya today, Anwar said that the RM500 special aid will only be given to Grade 56 civil servants and below, including contractual appointments.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced that an RM250 Aidilfitri special aid will also be distributed to government retirees, regardless of whether they’re veterans with pensions or not.
As for when the Aidilfitri special aid will be distributed, Anwar said that eligible civil servants will be getting the cash aid as early as this Friday (5 April).
A partial ‘U-turn’ on Aidilfitri special aid for civil servants
Last week, the Prime Minister asserted that there won’t be a special ‘bonus’ payment in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration because, on top of the RM2,000 early incentive payment distributed in February, civil servants will also be benefitting from a new remuneration scheme that will be announced soon.
However, it seems that the Federal Government made a partial ‘U-turn’ regarding the matter with this newly announced RM500 Aidilfitri special aid.
With the announcement of the special aid, the Federal Government has now without fail continued with the tradition of providing Aidilfitri special for the past 10 years.
For illustration purposes
So, what do you guys think of Anwar’s announcement? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Also read: PMX: No Raya Bonuses This Year For Civil Servants as RM2K Incentive Was Given in February
