KOTA BARU: The state government has followed Terengganu's lead in declaring March 30 an occasional holiday for Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

The announcement was made by Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud after today's executive council meeting.

Nassuruddin said the holiday would allow Muslims to prepare for the festival.

"I hope this brings joy to families celebrating the festival together."

He also announced a RM500 Aidilfitri aid for civil servants, amounting to a total of RM5 million.

He said the payment will be disbursed tomorrow.

He added that the aid does not include the RM250 payment for political appointees, which covers councillors, penghulu, armalah development coordinators, pondok teachers, Quran teachers and sewing teachers.

"It is in recognition of the service and dedication of civil servants."

Yesterday, the Terengganu government announced March 30 as an occasional holiday for Hari Raya.