Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government Pensioners Association has renewed its appeal for federal pensioners in the State to be also included in the RM1,000 special assistance announced by the Sabah Government.
Its President Wilfred Lingham said about 3,040 federal pensioners, representing nearly 30 per cent of the association’s 8,146 members, were excluded from the one-off payment, which was granted only to State Government pensioners.
“This RM1,000 was announced as a gesture of appreciation to pensioners, but unfortunately federal pensioners who are also Sabahans were left out,” he told reporters, Thursday.
Wilfred said the association submitted its first appeal to the State Government in March last year, but the request was rejected in May, followed by another rejection in August. A second appeal was sent in September, outlining reasons federal pensioners should also be considered.
“After retirement, most pensioners receive about 60 per cent of their salary, and the majority are now living on RM2,500 or less per month, which is below the poverty line,” he said, adding that the RM1,000 assistance would be meaningful for those affected.
Lingham said pensioners faced major challenges after retirement, including health issues, loneliness and depression, noting that many struggle financially.
The association actively organises programmes and activities across 22 districts in Sabah to keep retirees socially and mentally engaged, including an annual appreciation event recognising pensioners who have contributed to society.
Referring to the Federal Government’s commitment to implement the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Lingham said the return of 40 per cent revenue to Sabah should make it possible to extend the bonus to federal pensioners.
“If the 40 per cent is delivered to Sabah, paying a RM1,000 bonus to a few thousand pensioners can be implemented,” he said.
Wilfred also expressed appreciation to the State Government for providing grants that enable the association to operate and support its members statewide.
“We are thankful for the continuous support from the State Government, which allows us to fulfil our responsibilities to pensioners across Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wilfred said the association recently organised the Majlis Malam Suara Emas Pesara 2025 in Kota Kinabalu on Dec 27, attended by 290 participants from various districts.
The event received full support from the Sabah Community Services Council (MPMS) which provided funding.
