Bridging the gap: Abdul Rahman says that the framework is to ensure that no worker is left without protection when needed. — Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Plans for a round the clock social security protection for workers are underway, says Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad.
The Social Security Organisation (Socso) would be looking into a new framework to offer 24-hour comprehensive social security coverage beyond working hours of employees, he said.
“The framework will benefit about 7.6 million workers in the country.
“This will bridge the inequality gap, ensuring that no worker is left without protection when needed,” he told the Dewan Rakyat in response to Sivakumar Varatharaju Naidu (PH-Batu Gajah) yesterday.
Sivakumar had asked if a comprehensive social insurance scheme would be launched to protect low-income workers, as the rising cost of living has reduced their ability to obtain adequate health insurance from the private sector.
Abdul Rahman said Socso has a comprehensive social insurance scheme which prioritises those from the lower income group.
The safety framework, he said, comes after recommendations from stakeholders such as Malaysian Trades Union Congress and Malaysian Employers Federation.
Six engagement discussions were held with the stakeholders to ensure convenience for companies who want to protect their employees.
The framework would also be extended to Sabah and Sarawak.
“The ministry will present the plan in the Cabinet meeting,” he said.
He said that Socso currently provides both the Employment Injury Scheme and the Invalidity Scheme.
The Employment Injury Scheme covers accidents and disease in the course of work.
While the Invalidity Pension Scheme provides 24-hour coverage for employees against invalidity or death caused by any reason.
The Invalidity Scheme also offers medical benefits, where eligible insured persons can receive medical treatment services free of charge or claim reimbursement based on rates approved by Socso at any registered government or private clinic or hospital.
“With a low contribution rate, contributors are entitled to medical benefits under the Act, which directly helps the people, particularly contributors among the B40 group,” he said.
Abdul Rahman did not explain how the new scheme will be different from the current Invalidity Scheme.
He added that both schemes are under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969, the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 and the Housewives; Social Security Act 2022.
For those who are self-employed, there is a voluntary scheme, Self-Employed Social Security Scheme (SKSPS), which covers 20 different sectors.
They include sectors like goods and food transport, food and beverage, agriculture among others, he said.
Additionally, the Invalidity Scheme has also been extended to cover foreign workers.
The salary ceiling for contributions was also raised from RM5,000 to RM6,000, he added.
