Perkeso Amendments - Wider Coverage

The Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) is drafting amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), to provide 24-hour social security protection for employees under the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso). The amendments to the bill are expected to be tabled in Parliament this year, aiming to offer comprehensive protection even outside working hours.

Currently - if an employee takes his wife and children out for dinner after work, he currently has no protection. After the amendments, 24-hour coverage will be provided, including outside working hours. The amendments to the bill providing comprehensive protection is necessary, given the existing gap in coverage, as only 40 per cent of Malaysians are currently protected by private insurance.

The amendments would also allow workers to access health treatment, rehabilitation, and other necessary services in the event of an unforeseen incident, ensuring their survival and helping maintain a competitive workforce in the country.