KUALA LUMPUR: Some 1.3 million civil servants are set receive RM700 in special aid as a gesture of appreciation for their effort and sacrifices in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, says Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

       "In appreciation of the efforts and sacrifices of civil servants in discharging their duties while serving the rakyat, especially when the nation was facing challenges due to the pandemic, the government is announcing a special aid payment for some 1.3 million civil servants Grade 56 and below and RM350 special aid payment for retirees.

       "A total of RM1.3bil has been set aside for the purpose.

       "It is hoped that this will be a catalyst for civil servants to continue to serve with full dedication," he said when tabling Budget 2022 in Parliament on Friday (Oct 29).