DPM announces increase in allowance for APM personnel (Updated)

BAGAN DATUK: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today announced an increase in allowance for Civil Defence Force (APM) members from RM6 to RM8 per hour and RM7.80 to RM9 per hour for officers.
He said the increase, which would benefit about 2.1 million APM officers and members nationwide, was in appreciation of their deeds and services in extending early assistance, especially in times of disaster.
A uniform allowance of RM10 million will also be given to APM this year, from RM5 million last year, he said.
Ahmad Zahid also instructed APM to submit application to the Public Service Department for permanent posts and higher grade for permanent posts
The deputy prime minister, who is Bagan Datuk Member of Parliament said this in his speech when opening a programme with Bagan Datuk APM members at Sekolah Menengah Sains Bagan Datuk here today.
Also present were Minister at the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim and APM Chief Commissioner Major-General (Rtd) Datuk Azmy Yahya.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said only a concerned government would care, not only for the welfare of its employees at the ministries, departments and agencies, but also volunteer organisations.
"You never asked for it, but we don't have to be asked because if it is something appropriate to be given as appreciation for that spirit of volunteerism, the government will give," he said.
Therefore, he called on APM members and officers to continue to support the existing government for continuity in the leadership.
Meanwhile, a APM member, Mohd Hairi Azmi Tham, 28, from Kuala Kangsar, expressed his gratitude for the government's concern in raising their allowance.
Mohd Hairi, who has been with APM for five years, said the increase had long been awaited by APM members.
The increase will further boost the spirit of volunteerism, he added. — Bernama