MIRI: The federal government should allow Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) branches throughout the state and the country to extend their operational hours from 10am to 6pm instead of from 10am to 3pm.
In stating this, Tourism, Arts and Culture Assistant Minister and Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew suggested that Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) talk to the federal government about the issue.
“Everyone is going to BSN branches to withdraw their Bantuan Prihatin Nasional (BPN) and Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang assistance.
“I believe this is happening throughout Malaysia. We have seen long queues of people at BSN branches in Kuching, Sibu, Miri and other states, especially now that Ramadan is approaching.
“So instead of the normal banking hours from 10am to 3pm set by the Bank Negara, BSN banks should be allowed to extend their operating hours extended and if possible, up to 6pm,” he said when met by reporters at BSN Miri Waterfront Commercial Centre branch yesterday.
Ting pointed out that if the hours were extended, the police and army could help look after the banks.
“Hence, I am appealing to SDMC on this. I have just conveyed to them to please inform the Finance Ministry (MOF), or Bank Negara or the Prime Minister to allow an extension of operational hours from 10am to 6pm for BSN. “Then the people do not have to queue as early as 5am,” he added.
