Pensioners mad over SPBA extra cash

Pensioners uproar!

When the Public Service Dept paid them the extras for two months (January and February) under the recently scrapped Public Service New Remuneration Scheme (SPBA) adjustment, little did the recipients knew that it would be withdrawn.

And worst still, they have to pay back the amount to the government!

So, some pensioners went to the bank today. To their disappointment, 'insufficient balance' was all they got from the teller or ATM machines. Those who enjoyed the extras (between RM800 and RM3,000 per month) previously, ended up in despair.

After some deductions for house loan, car and others, some are left with nothing.

"Come on! The government made the mistake. Its their fault. Those responsible for the scheme must answer this.

"Had we used up the money, it was ours since the government had paid for it before (Prime Minister) Najib scrapped it.

"If they want it back, they should have worked out a plan to retrieve the money, at least by three of four installments. As pensioners, we depend solely on our monthly pension.

"Is this our fault? We want to ask Najib - is this a benevolent government as he claimed? Those who are still in service too are having difficulty when their end-March pay is deducted for that payback.

"You want our vote in the coming general election?"

Yes, they were frustrated and in anguish.

Well... who should be blamed? I believe our Chief Secretary to the Government must answer this!