The human resources ministry 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).
Its minister, Steven Sim, said if there are no issues, the amendments to the bill are expected to be tabled in Parliament this year, aiming to offer comprehensive protection even outside working hours.
“I am grateful that it has been approved by the Cabinet after several years of advocacy, and we are now drafting amendments to the Act.
“For example, 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,” he told a press conference after officiating the opening of the 2025 national trade union assembly here today.
Sim said the amendments are necessary, given the existing gap in coverage, as only 40% of Malaysians are protected by private insurance.
He said the amended Act would also allow workers to access health treatment, rehabilitation, and other services in the event of an unforeseen incident, ensuring their survival and helping maintain a competitive workforce in the country.
He also said the ministry has begun reviewing 28 labour laws to ensure that they provide optimal, up-to-date protection for workers.
The review includes several major laws, such as the Employment Act 1955, the Sabah Labour Ordinance, and the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.
He also said low-income earners can now access free legal services at the industrial court, thanks to collaboration between the ministry and the Bar Council, the Sabah Law Society, and the Advocates Association of Sarawak.
