Penang announces a 0.75-month bonus for state civil servants, with a RM1,000 minimum payout, alongside new sick leave aid for contract staff
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government will pay a 0.75-month Special Financial Aid (BKK) to its civil servants next month.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the bonus, with a minimum payout of RM1,000, during the tabling of the state’s Budget 2026.
A total of 3,954 state civil servants will benefit from the aid, involving a financial implication of RM11.49 million.
“This is an appreciation for their service in the state administration,” Chow said at the State Legislative Assembly.
Supervisors and teachers from KAFA, SRAR, SMAR, and SABK will also receive a separate one-off payment of RM300.
Tahfiz, pondok, TADIS teachers, and staff of Chinese private schools will also get the RM300 payment.
This additional payment will benefit 3,358 individuals across these educational institutions.
The state government also introduced the Contract Staff Sick Leave Aid (BCSK) initiative.
This new welfare measure provides protection for civil servants hired under the Interim Contract Appointment (LKI) scheme.
LKI officers certified unfit for work due to health reasons may receive aid payments equal to their current emoluments.
“This initiative reflects the state government’s concern and commitment towards the welfare of contract-appointed officers,” Chow said.
Penang began recruiting civil servants through LKI on January 1, 2025, aligning with federal policy.
Chow tabled a RM1.088 billion budget for 2026 operating expenditure, projecting a RM19.92 million deficit.
The 2026 operating expenditure increased by RM147.72 million, or 15.71%, compared to the 2025 budget.
This projected deficit is the lowest in the state’s history. – Bernama
