Hajiji: Sabah to monitor before deciding on WFH for civil servants

KOTA KINABALU (April 5): The Sabah government will monitor developments before deciding whether to implement a work-from-home (WFH) arrangement for civil servants, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He said the matter would be brought to the state Cabinet for discussion, following the federal government’s move to implement WFH arrangements beginning April 15 as part of efforts to manage rising costs and energy consumption.

“I will bring this matter to the next Cabinet meeting. If there is a need, we will implement it. We will see how the concept will be carried out,” he told reporters after a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration with the media here on Saturday night.

The Chief Minister noted that the move at the federal level was driven by concerns over global economic uncertainties, including rising oil prices and increasing cost of goods, which have affected several countries.

“As a country, we may also face an economic crisis due to rising oil prices and the increasing cost of goods. So we are asked to monitor the situation and take appropriate measures,” he said.

He stressed that such developments, although occurring in regions like the Middle East, have far-reaching implications on the global economy and energy supply.

“This is something that should be given attention not only by the government but also by the people. They must understand that although it is happening in the Middle East, the impact on the economy and energy crisis is felt by all countries,” he said.

On Sabah’s energy situation, Hajiji said the state remains relatively stable, with a total electricity capacity of about 1,400 megawatts (MW), of which 1,100 MW is generated from gas supplied by Petronas.

“This means we will not be significantly affected. Only about 300 MW comes from diesel, and this is what we are monitoring. If diesel prices rise, it could affect our situation in Sabah,” he said.

He added that although an increase in diesel prices would have an impact, the continued diesel subsidy in Sabah helps to cushion the burden.

When asked about possible diesel shortages in the interior, Hajiji said there have been no disruptions so far.

“We are monitoring the situation from time to time. So far, there has been none,” he said.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government would continue to assess the situation closely before making any decision on implementing WFH arrangements.