KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has disclosed that the Sarawak government will be reviewing the salary scale for its civil servants.
He said he has directed State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki to conduct an evaluation and comprehensive study on the matter.
“The purpose of this salary scale review is to align with the rising cost of living in the present day. I aim to implement this before I retire as Premier,” he noted.
Abang Johari made these remarks at the 2023 Perdana Intergriti (MAP-i) ceremony and National Integrity Conference (PiNK) held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching here on today (Sept 14).
He reiterated that the State Secretary’s evaluation and study are crucial given the increasing burden of living expenses coupled with stagnant salary increments.
“The Sarawak government is dedicated to achieving more balanced and inclusive salary growth that matches the efforts put forth by civil servants,” he underscored.
Abang Johari also pointed out that this initiative aligns with Sarawak’s commendable progress and high status income.
“I need to find a solution. If other countries can do it, why can’t we (Sarawak)? We understand the concerns of civil servants; disproportionate growth could lead to a breakdown in compliance with the law,” he added.
He emphasised that alongside salary increments, an upswing in productivity among civil servants must also be realised, impacting the state’s economy positively.
“When we work hard, our economy thrives, and as the economy flourishes, so does our income. That is our objective.”
