KUALA LUMPUR: The Budget 2023 allocation for the police was commendable but more should be done to address the plight of retired servicemen, says the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (Respa).
Its president Datuk Meor Chek Hussien Mahayuddin said although the government was facing financial constraints, he hoped they would consider improving medical facilities for retired police personnel.
"Police veterans have poured their blood and sweat in service to the nation.
"As they are elderly, they have to seek medical attention frequently. We would appreciate any effort to enable easier medical access for veterans," he said when contacted on Monday (Oct 10).
Respa also called for a special wing to be set up at hospitals for police veterans.
"Retirees, especially those from lower ranks, are facing grave financial difficulties given the current state of the economy.
"A special hospital wing for veterans will greatly help them get medical attention. The government can also introduce a specific hospital for all security agency personnel for those still in service or retired," he said.
On another matter, Meor Chek also lauded the government for forming the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC).
"Forming the NSRC is long overdue and it will go a long way in curbing scams effectively," he said.
On the RM42mil allocation for police housing, Meor Chek said the allocation was insufficient.
More should be done to improve housing for police personnel, especially those of lower rank.
"They are struggling as there is a lack of affordable accommodation, especially in big cities. We hope the government will address this pressing issue," he said.
