Kuching: Employers across Malaysia, including those in Sarawak, are strongly encouraged to take full advantage of the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) ongoing amnesty programme, which is tentative until May 31.
The initiative offers a valuable opportunity for employers to settle outstanding PERKESO contributions without incurring penalties, compound fees, or late charges.
The amnesty programme is part of a broader effort to enhance social security coverage for workers nationwide and promote greater compliance with Malaysian labour laws and international standards. This comes as a reminder of the crucial role such coverage plays, particularly in cases involving workplace accidents.
Political Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and MP for Bandar Kuching, Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, highlighted the importance of the programme during a visit to the family of the late Chung Jee Fatt. This 70-year-old factory worker tragically lost his life in a workplace accident on March 15.
“Mr Chung died after being impaled by a forklift blade in an accident at the Pending Industrial Estate in Kuching.
“PERKESO’s Skuad Prihatin promptly verified his eligibility under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), confirming he was a registered contributor,” he said.
Accompanied by PERKESO Sarawak State Director Tan Phang Chia, Dr Kelvin Yii visited Mr Chung’s widow to offer condolences and deliver a PERKESO Prihatin Box containing food aid. They also presented the PERKESO Funeral Benefit of RM3,000 and facilitated the documentation process for the Survivors’ Pension, which provides monthly financial support for the widow, Nikun Anak Gulep, for the rest of her life.
“This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of PERKESO contributions. These protections are vital not just for the workers but also for their families in times of hardship,” he said.
Dr Kelvin Yii urged all employers to fulfil their obligations under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 and called on workers to check their PERKESO contribution status.
“Normally, non-compliant employers would face legal actions, compound fines, and interest fees, but the amnesty programme offers a window for resolution without these penalties.
“Let us honour the late Mr Chung by committing to safer workplaces and ensuring every worker in Malaysia receives the protection they rightly deserve,” he added.
