BUDGET 2023 re-tabled by Finance Minister Anwar Ibrahim today did not address the issue of rising cost of living which continues to be a burden for civil servants, said Cuepacs.

Its president Adnan Mat also described the budget as disappointing as there was no commitment by the government to raise the wages of civil servants to match the high cost of living.

“Wages are an urgent matter at this point in time with the current cost of living, especially in light of the drastic hike in the price of food, healthcare and housing,” he said in a statement.

He said civil servants were hoping for a better wage system that has not been revised since November 2022.

Housing for civil servants was also not brought up in Budget 2023, he said.

“The one member one house programme (Sasar) for military personnel must be extended to all civil servants. They are not asking for free housing but for affordable housing that is compatible with their wages.”

In the budget, Anwar announced an Aidilfitri special financial assistance of RM700 to all civil servants Grade 56 and below, including those on contract and pensioners. –  February 24, 2023.