In conjunction with the issuance of the decision by the Council of Ministers concerning the “Regulation for Kuwaitization of Government Contracts” and in line with what was previously published in the Al-Seyassah issue on August 18, 2023, regarding the development of a comprehensive program known as the “Strategic Alternative” to review public sector salaries, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, Aseel Al-Munaifi, has announced an ongoing study in cooperation with the Civil Service Commission to approve a “special increase” for government sector employees.

In a statement to Al-Seyassah, Al-Munaifi explained that the study was conducted in response to the directives of His Highness the Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Nawaf, aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. She noted that the concept has been discussed with the Civil Service Commission and is now in its final stages, set to be presented to the Council of Ministers in the near future. Additionally, the Undersecretary of Finance clarified that this anticipated step is part of a series of recent decisions, with financial costs already approved.

As part of these decisions, support is provided for workers engaged in micro-activities or specific fields, patients and their companions employed in the private sector are extended assistance during overseas medical treatment, scholarship students from the private sector can receive assistance in completing their studies or training, and small and medium enterprise owners can receive a six-month loan installment deferral from the National Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises, Development and Care.

Additionally, Al-Munifi reported ongoing efforts by the Subsidies Committee to optimize and direct subsidies to those who are eligible for them. She specified that the study is specifically focused on subsidies for “diesel and kerosene,” and once completed, it will be presented to the Council of Ministers for a decision. This initiative is part of the broader strategy to enhance non-oil revenues and rationalize the state’s overall budget.