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THE implementation of the work-from-home (WFH) initiative has begun to yield measurable fiscal benefits, with savings of RM1.9 million in RON95 petrol subsidies recorded within 10 days of its introduction, according to the government.
The initiative, overseen by the Public Service Department (PSD), has reportedly resulted in savings equivalent to 979,632 litres of petrol since its rollout on 15 April.
Director-General Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz said the scheme has led to daily savings of 120,816 litres of petrol, amounting to RM239,215.68 per day.
“Although the figure may not seem large, I see it as a significant contribution from civil servants in helping the government manage financial burdens arising from the crisis in the Middle East (West Asia),” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after attending the Ziarah Pesara Uzur programme in Taman Ria, Sri Lalang.
As of today, 20,136 civil servants are participating in the work-from-home arrangement, compared with 15,452 at the start of implementation on 15 April.
Wan Ahmad said the arrangement does not disrupt public service delivery, as it only involves tasks that do not require physical presence in the office.
He added that the scheme is structured to ensure accountability and productivity monitoring.
“However, for now, work-from-home is not implemented on Mondays so that tasks can be allocated to civil servants who are working from home, while Fridays are used for productivity assessment,” he said.
The work-from-home policy has been used in several countries since the COVID-19 pandemic, including Singapore, with performance monitored through key performance indicators and supervisory evaluation.
The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to strengthen preparedness in response to global supply disruptions linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. It is currently implemented on a three-day-per-week basis.
During the same visit programme, Wan Ahmad met three retired civil servants facing health and financial difficulties, including Md Suli Daud, 70, a former radiographer at Hospital Sultanah Nora Ismail, who is now bedridden due to paralysis.
Md Suli received essential supplies and a special hospital bed, while two other recipients were given food baskets and an electric wheelchair.
The programme is aimed at supporting retired civil servants facing hardship, reflecting ongoing government efforts to provide welfare assistance to vulnerable groups. - April 30, 2026
