IPOH, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- The RM1,500 Special Financial Aid (BKK) announced under Budget 2027 is a welcome relief for public servants in Perak, offering them some financial breathing space as they cope with the rising cost of living.
Those interviewed said the assistance came at an opportune time, as they prepare to meet multiple financial commitments, particularly with the 2027 school session set to begin on Jan 4, followed by the Aidilfitri celebrations in March.
For nurse Aida Nasuha Yusof, 34, the increased assistance means a great deal in helping her family manage household expenses.
“The RM1,500 assistance will certainly help ease the financial burden on my family, especially with the rising cost of living and the expenses of preparing for the new school year and Aidilfitri, which fall almost back-to-back.
“We thank the government for its concern. We hope the welfare of public servants will continue to be safeguarded so that we can carry out our duties with greater motivation and peace of mind,” said the mother of two.
Sharing similar sentiments, administrative assistant Mohamad Amzar Hafizuddin Mohamad Akhir, 30, described the assistance, the largest he had ever received, as a sign of the government's appreciation for public servants' dedication to their duties at the grassroots level.
“Thank you to the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) for this RM1,500 special financial assistance. We have never received such a large amount before, and it means a great deal in easing the burden on those who need it most,” he said.
For general operations assistant Ahmad Tajudin Jali, 57, the government's decision to provide assistance at this level reflected the resilience of the domestic economy, which remained strong despite global economic uncertainties.
“Our country's economy remains stable enough for the government to provide financial assistance of this amount. We are very grateful that the government cares about the welfare of its employees,” said the father of four.
Public service assistant Arfanizam Anuar, 49, also expressed his appreciation, thanking the Prime Minister for recognising the financial constraints faced by support staff.
Meanwhile, matron Hanizan Abdul Hamid, 55, described the special assistance as a valuable morale booster for healthcare workers, particularly nurses and hospital staff who work shifts.
“For staff with significant family commitments, the RM1,500 will provide much-needed relief ahead of the festive and school seasons. However, continued improvements in income are still necessary to keep pace with the rising cost of living,” she said.
Archive officer Saifurnizam Ya'akob also welcomed the announcement, admitting that he had not expected the assistance to reach RM1,500, compared with the usual RM500 previously.
Anwar, when tabling the budget on Friday, announced the assistance for 1.3 million civil servants at Premier Grade B and below, including contract appointees, which will be disbursed in two payments, before Aidilfitri and ahead of 70th anniversary of Malaysia’s independence.
-- BERNAMA