A GROUP of workers from the often-overlooked ‘3D’ sector, Dirty, Dangerous, and Difficult jobs, were moved to tears today as their years of dedicated service were formally recognised at the fourth and final day of the state investiture ceremony, held in conjunction with the 84th birthday celebration of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Utama Ramli Ngah Talib.
The investiture ceremony saw nine workers from both the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) bestowed with state honours, a powerful acknowledgement of their long-standing commitment to keeping Penang clean and safe.
Among the recipients were six workers from MBPP, and they were Omar Shariff Abdul Salam, K. Nirmal, Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad Noor, Mohyuddin Abdul Kadir Jailani, Mohamad Yusoff Abdul Aziz, and Bazlan Osman, as well as three from MBSP, namely Khairul Nizam Muhamad Rosli, Saidil Omar Awang, and Zulkifli Yahaya.
Present to witness the meaningful occasion were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Penang State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, and other dignitaries.
Their presence underscored the state government’s unwavering commitment to recognising the contributions of 3D workers, individuals who play a crucial role in maintaining public hygiene, safety, and order.
One of the awardees, Omar, 55, received the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK).
Having served for 26 years as a General Service Assistant (H1) in MBPP’s 3D unit, he shared his heartfelt appreciation after receiving the honour.
“I am very grateful to receive the PJK award from Tun Ramli and the state government today. This means a lot after all these years.
“One of my most memorable moments was being deployed for post-flood recovery missions outside Penang. It is an experience I will never forget,” he told reporters earlier.
Omar previously received the Pingat Jasa Masyarakat (PJM) approximately 15 years ago.
For Mohamad Firdaus, 32, the honour came as an unexpected but welcome surprise.
“I have only been serving under MBPP’s Urban Services Department for seven years, so I didn’t think I would be selected.
“This is a blessing, an acknowledgement not just for me but for all of us working in the 3D sector,” he said.
Similarly, Nirmal, 41, who has spent 21 years as a General Service Assistant (Grade H1) under MBPP, described the moment as one of great pride.
“This is my first time receiving the P.J.M. I am happy to be recognised.
“Today’s ceremony was not just about awarding the DGPN title to national sports legend Lee Chong Wei, it also celebrated people like us working behind the scenes.
“That is something I am proud of as a member of MBPP,” Nirmal emphasised.
To date, 75 3D workers serve under MBPP and 136 under MBSP, all of whom have been receiving a monthly special allowance of RM150 since 2011, later increased to RM200 in 2013.
The continued tradition of honouring 3D workers at the state level sends a clear message — Penang values the tireless efforts of these frontline individuals, recognising them as vital pillars in ensuring the sustainability and well-being of the community.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En