Ipoh: The implementation of weekly rest days for firefighters has yet to be finalized and necessitates further analysis, stated Director-General of Public Service Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz. He indicated that discussions will be held between the Public Service Department and the Housing and Local Government Ministry to thoroughly assess the proposal.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wan Ahmad Dahlan mentioned that the proposal was recently received and acknowledged the Fire and Rescue Department’s urgency in announcing it due to their perceived need. He assured that the matter would be reviewed collaboratively with the relevant departments and ministries. Should there be a valid justification and basis for the request, efforts would be made to assist in its implementation. The HRM for firefighters was initially set to commence on May 1 but has since been postponed.

In a separate matter, Wan Ahmad Dahlan addressed the MySTEP scheme, emphasizing that its implementation falls under the jurisdiction of the respective ministries, despite being approved by the Ministry of Finance. The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services had urged the government to reconsider implementing the MySTEP scheme for Price Monitoring Officers, highlighting concerns over lower wages compared to the current arrangement and potential negative impacts on livelihoods.

Additionally, Wan Ahmad Dahlan commented on the health of civil servants, noting that about 80 percent of those in Putrajaya were overweight. He urged them to adopt healthier lifestyles by maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise and sports activities.