For decades, trade unions, civil society groups and workers had pushed for wider Social Security Organisation (Socso) protection. They wanted cover extended to a full 24 hours.
So when the government announced it would introduce the ‘Lindung 24 Jam’ (24-hour protection) Socso scheme, they welcomed it. The scheme was due to roll out from June 2026.
A welcome scheme, undone
Some workers raised concerns about the extra 0.75% Socso contribution, initially proposed to be paid wholly by employees. But trade unions and workers had no objections to the scheme itself.
Despite this, cabinet ministers have inexplicably decided to make participation in ‘Lindung 24 Jam’ voluntary for Malaysian workers. This shows a complete lack of empathy.
The decision is baffling enough on its own. But compelling migrant workers to join the scheme while giving Malaysians a choice is discriminatory. All workers, regardless of nationality, deserve equal treatment.
A gap I’ve seen first-hand
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I have served as workers’ representative (assessor) on the Socso appellate board. In that role, I have seen one too many workers’ injury claims rejected because Socso ruled the injury did not happen at work.
The ‘Lindung 24 Jam’ scheme was a much-awaited and welcome initiative. It would have given social security protection to workers injured outside working hours.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Socso would not have designed the ‘Lindung 24 Jam’ programme without first confirming its purpose.
Yet meddlesome cabinet ministers chose to weaken this progressive effort, turning the scheme voluntary.
Cover should not be optional
Social security safety nets are essential. They protect workers when misfortune, such as illness or injury, strikes.
Providing that protection is the job of government and employers. They must design, implement and fund these safety nets.
Contributions to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and to Socso’s Invalidity Pension and Employment Injury schemes are already mandatory. ‘Lindung 24 Jam’ contributions should be too.
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
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