The Star
PUTRAJAYA: With global oil prices showing a recovery, the civil servants’ union has urged the Government to retract a circular which prevents the hiring of new recruits.
Cuepacs president Datuk Azih Muda said the Treasury circular titled “Government expenditure optimising measures guidelines” was introduced when the oil price was very low as a cost-cutting exercise.
“When the circular was issued, the price of oil went down to about US$35 (RM141.42) per barrel. Today, the price has gone back up. There are also signs that Malaysia is not too affected by the global economic downturn due to other instruments.
“So we think the Government can revoke the circular and lift the freeze on hiring new recruits, creating new posts and giving promotions.
“The decision in the circular to reduce the issuance of uniform to officers should also be revoked. An officer needs at least three sets of uniforms a year. At present, some are only given just one for a whole year. How can you wear only one for the rest of the year?
“We are heading towards developed nation status in 2020 and the Government should retract this circular so the civil service can become more competitive,” said Azih at a press conference after a Cuepacs briefing with Treasury staff here.
Meanwhile, Azih thanked the Government for announcing the RM500 special financial aid for civil servants in conjunction with the Hari Raya celebration.
“Even though we had requested for a month’s salary bonus, we are grateful that we can still receive RM500 aid, as we understand the Government’s financial ability.
“This aid shows that the Government appreciates the work of the civil service and we hope all civil servants will continue to improve their performance and productivity,” said Azih.
On another matter, Azih commended the Education Ministry’s decision to award matriculation graduates with certificates.
“This is a recognition to those who completed matriculation studies. At present, civil servants who graduated from matriculation programmes are only hired as SPM leavers. They should be on par with STPM leavers,” said Azih.
