Postmen who also deliver computers

Postmen who also deliver computers

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): Malaysia's postmen are carrying more than just cards this festive season -- they also deliver computers. But the government's unusual scheme, part of its drive to bring information technology to the people, has come under fire from retailers and consumers who say it distorts the free market.

Workers who must contribute 11 percent of their earnings to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) are allowed to withdraw some of the money before retirement for house or computer purchases.

The government, worried that many people were cheating the scheme and withdrawing cash for other purposes, last month decreed all computer purchases using EPF money be made through Pos Malaysia.

Buyers must choose between 10 brands and can withdraw up to 3,500 ringgit (US$921) from the fund.

The post office has trained scores of employees to help install computers and give first time users free lessons.