Cuepacs to govt: Be serious in increasing risk allowance for enforcement officers

The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has repeated its call that the government seriously consider increasing the risk allowance for government officers.

Its president, Datuk Azih Muda said this was because the enforcers were stressed over their low salaries and the increasing cost of living.

"There are some in enforcement agencies who are paid only RM200 in risk allowance. In fact, some agencies do not pay anything.

"Nevertheless, these people have to deal with threats, including death threats, when carrying out enforcement duties which put their safety and that of their families at risk. As such, we are again asking the government and the responsible parties to consider increasing the allowance to between RM500 and RM800 a month.

"This will indirectly lighten the financial burden of the enforcers," he told reporters here on Monday.

Cuepacs was previously reported to have urged the government to consider increasing the risk allowance for government enforcement bodies such as the road transport; customs; fire and rescue; immigration and the prisons departments.

Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister, Datuk Seri Hasan Malek was also reported as saying his ministry would take the matter to the Cabinet to increase the allowance of its enforcement officers from the current RM200.

Azih said besides appreciating the sacrifices of the enforcement officers, the increase in risk allowance would also boost their spirit in carrying out their duties.

"It would also prevent corruption in the activities or operations during enforcement," he added.