KUCHING: The Public Services Department (JPA) is set to carry out a comprehensive study on the proposal to extend the mandatory retirement age for civil servants from 60 to 65 years old.
Chief Secretary to the Government, Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, said that a thorough review is essential before any decisions are made.
“To date, no study has been conducted on this matter. Therefore, JPA will initiate one first,” said Shamsul after attending a lecture titled “State Capacity and Directed Growth: A Mission-Oriented Approach” by economist Mariana Francesca Mazzucato as reported by Bernama on Thursday.
In response to the proposal, Sarawak Tribune sought public opinion by interviewing several individuals to gather their views on the matter.
ROSLAN PELI, 52, Security guard
“I think raising the retirement age to 65 is a wise and timely proposal. Many of us who are approaching 60 still have the skills, knowledge, and energy to contribute meaningfully to the civil service. With healthcare improving and people living longer, 60 doesn’t feel old anymore. Financially, this would also help us prepare better for retirement, especially with the rising cost of living and healthcare. Instead of forcing experienced officers to leave, why not allow them to serve longer if they are still capable? Experience is something that cannot be replaced easily, and we should value it.”
Ariff Arahman Ibrahim, 21, Site supervisor
“As a fresh graduate actively looking for government jobs, I’m worried that raising the retirement age to 65 will reduce our chances of getting hired. The civil service already has limited openings, and if people stay longer, those vacancies won’t open up anytime soon. I understand the older generation wants to stay employed, but the government also needs to think about the younger generation. If this policy is implemented, they should also consider creating more job opportunities for youths or improving hiring quotas to balance it out.”
JONATHAN EDWARD AHOW, 50, General worker
“Working into one’s sixties can be beneficial for some but detrimental for others. Continued work can keep the mind active, delay age-related decline, and give a sense of purpose. However, this really depends on the individual’s health status and the nature of their job. Physically demanding jobs may not be suitable for older workers. Instead of a fixed retirement age, I would recommend a flexible retirement framework allowing civil servants to choose phased retirement, reduced hours, or transition plans. A one-size-fits-all approach may not be the best in addressing diverse ageing and health needs.”
SENISAH SEZALIE, 31, Sales executive
“It’s good that the government is considering support for civil servants, but what about us in the private sector? We don’t have the same job security, pensions, or retirement options. If the retirement age is extended only for public servants, it could widen the gap between the two sectors. Private employees are already struggling with job insecurity and lower retirement savings. The government should look at comprehensive retirement reform, not just for civil servants. Everyone, regardless of sector, deserves to age with dignity and fair employment policies.”
