Kuala lumpur: The implementation of the work-from-home (WFH) initiative has begun to show a significant impact, saving RM1.9 million in RON95 petrol subsidies, equivalent to 979,632 litres, over 10 days since April 15. Director-General of Public Service (KPPA) Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz said the savings involved 120,816 litres of petrol, or RM239,215.68 per day.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wan Ahmad Dahlan emphasized that although the savings figure may not seem large, it represents a meaningful contribution from civil servants in helping the government manage financial pressures arising from the crisis in West Asia. He noted that 20,136 civil servants are currently participating in the WFH arrangement, an increase from 15,452 on April 15. The initiative is designed not to affect public service delivery, as it only involves tasks that do not require physical presence in the office, and is being implemented three days a week.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan clarified that the WFH arrangement does not apply on Mondays to allow officers to receive work assignments, and Fridays, which are meant for productivity assessments. He highlighted that the WFH policy has been implemented in several countries since the COVID-19 pandemic, including Singapore, with performance monitored through productivity tracking and key performance indicators (KPIs) assessed by respective supervisors.

The initiative is part of a strategic government effort to strengthen readiness in facing global energy challenges following tensions in West Asia, Wan Ahmad Dahlan remarked.

Earlier, he visited three ailing retirees, including former radiographer Md Suli Daud, 70, who is paralysed and bedridden, and presented him with essential supplies and a special hospital bed. He also provided the other two retirees with food baskets and electric wheelchairs. These visits aim to provide support to government retirees facing health and financial difficulties, reflecting the government's continued commitment to their welfare.