MELAKA (Nov 10): The Public Service Department (PSD) is assessing the financial implications of a proposal to create 10,250 permanent posts for officers and staff of the Community Development Department (Kemas) nationwide, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said a memorandum and proposal paper on the matter were submitted to the director-general of Public Service through the Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW) more than six months ago.

The Rural and Regional Development Minister said the review was aimed at ensuring that the proposal, if implemented, would not place an undue financial burden on the government.

"We are confident that the PSD will carefully assess the proposal to ensure it does not strain government finances, as the government's policy for new posts is to offer permanent appointments with contributions to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).

"We hope the government will make a decision on the matter soon," he said at the Melaka Kemas staff gathering with top management in Tanjung Kling here on Tuesday.

In July, Ahmad Zahid proposed converting all key Kemas positions into permanent posts, noting that most of the department's employees were currently serving on a contract basis under the existing service scheme.

He said KKDW would continue to monitor developments to safeguard the welfare and future of Kemas employees.

The proposal, he said, was also intended to recognise the dedication and contributions of Kemas teachers and staff to the country's human capital development.

"Some have served for as long as 41 years, only to retire without a pension.

"We will therefore continue pushing for permanent appointments to be offered to Kemas officers and staff nationwide as soon as possible," he added.

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