Base pensions for retired politicians on highest post held

KOTA SAMARAHAN: Pensions for former politicians should be based on the highest position they held during their tenure.
 
Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) President Datuk Dr Adnan Mat said this would be more reasonable due to perceptions that politicians receive large pensions.
 
He said what needs to be noted is that politicians often switch roles every five years, resulting in relatively short service periods.
 
“There are many, some may receive pensions for being assemblymen, Members of Parliament, executive positions such as Executive Committee (exco), ministers, deputy ministers, and so on.
 
“So, the better or more reasonable approach is for former politicians to receive pensions based on the highest position they have held,” he said during a press conference after the meeting between Cuepacs and Unimas staff here today (March 13).
   
“Consideration on this matter will also help alleviate the financial burden of the country,” he said.
 
Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that former politicians who are entitled to more than one pension should choose only one.
 
However, he stressed that the choice is up to the individuals involved, given that there are former ministers, chief ministers, and government officials who receive three to four pensions.
 
In this regard, Adnan stated that Cuepacs agreed to this because it does not require further study and is already within the civil service pension system.
 
“Choosing a higher pension will also be an effort to appreciate their service,” he added.