THE retirement age should not have been increased but instead the eligibility to receive the pension should have been lowered to the age of 56 as opposed to 60. This view was shared by many senior citizens who came out in force during the National Day Parade, yesterday.

“There is already concern among the public that by the age 55 there will be lowered productivity with increased medical leave as various ailments start to emerge,” said Syed Malai Hassan Othman, former City Editor for the Borneo Bulletin and Deputy President of the National Development Party who presented the views of many in the party.

“It is hoped that it would not be mandatory. But a choice of the individual whether they want to work till 60 or retire at 55.

“At the end of the day, we are addressing social issues so we have to ask what the rationale behind it is. To ensure the welfare and well-being of the workforce after they retire. So is it more effective to increase the retirement age or is it much better to bring down one’s eligibility to receive their pension?”

Meanwhile, 65-year-old Haji Mohd Ali Haji Yussof, a former BSP employee, was more than proud to stand amidst the crowd to honour the country’s National Day.

“The country’s development has flourished under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and I am proud to have seen it happen right before my eyes,” he told the Bulletin.

65-year-old Haji Yusof was also eager to express his gratitude to His Majesty. “The changes and developments over the past decades are so significantly marked that you cannot help but want to graciously thank His Majesty for what he has done for the country,” he said.

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