KUCHING: Christmas this year will hold a special meaning for civil servants in Sarawak as their first adjusted salary under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) will take effect this month.
Many expressed gratitude for the new adjusted salary as well as the Special Financial Assistance (BKK) comprising two months’ salary by the state government, also paid this month, saying the dual financial boost was a timely Christmas gift.
Gabriel Rommy, 26, who is with the Sarawak Public Communications Unit, said the SSPA salary increase has “brightened” his holiday preparations this year.
“With the salary increase, I’m able to buy Christmas decorations for our home, bringing back the festive spirit for my family.
“Last year, we didn’t celebrate Christmas as we were grieving the loss of my father,” he said, Bernama reported.
Under the SSPA, officers in the implementing, management and professional groups will receive a phased salary adjustment of 15% – 8% in Phase 1 starting this December, and 7% in Phase 2 starting January 2026.
The top management group will receive a salary adjustment of 4% in Phase 1 and 3% in Phase 2.
