Socso disbursed RM800k to retrenched workers since Jan 2018

KUALA LUMPUR: The Social Security Organisation (Socso) has disbursed a total of RM802,800 to retrenched workers as an interim benefit since January.
Stating this, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot (pix) said this is part of the RM122 million allocated for the implementation of the Employment Insurance System (EIS).
As of Feb 28, he said Socso has received some 2,471 applications for the EIS disbursement and it has approved 1,336 applications.
Riot told the Dewan Rakyat that each retrenched worker would be paid RM600 for a period of three months.
"Actually the payout or matured period to obtain the interest is January 2019, but considering the retrenched workers' (welfare), the government has allocated RM122 million to ensure that the scheme runs effectively.
"To date, we have paid out RM802,800 in interest," he said, responding to Datuk Normala Abdul Samad (BN-Pasir Gudang).
She had asked about the government's measures to ensure smooth implementation of the EIS.
The EIS, which was implemented this year will fully kick off next year.
Riot said to date a total of 240,077 employers have registered under the scheme, involving a total contribution of RM19.92 million.
He reiterated that Socso contributors who are retrenched this year will be eligible and entitled to the interim disbursement.
The EIS, passed by the Dewan Rakyat last December, will aid retrenched private sector workers by providing a bridging programme and financial assistance.
Under the EIS scheme, the contribution from employers will be 0.2% of an employee's monthly salary and likewise from the employee.