Civil servants planning to opt for early retirement must ensure they have a strong support plan in place, such as a second career, alternative income sources, and financial stability, to avoid hardship after leaving government service, the Public Service Department (PSD) has cautioned.

PSD Pension Division deputy director Anom Akmar Omar said that among the most critical factors to consider before making such a decision are debt obligations, family support, and the ability to sustain oneself without relying on social welfare programmes.