Scheme could reduce need for workers to pay for private medical insurance, says academic
PETALING JAYA: The plan to expand Social Security Organisation (Socso) protection beyond regular working hours could mark a pivotal step in modernising the country’s labour safety net and aligning it with current flexible work realities, experts said.
Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia human resources lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Abdul Rahim Zumrah said the proposed Lindung 24/7 scheme could bring tangible benefits to employees and employers in the long run.
“From an employee’s perspective, this initiative could increase satisfaction as they are covered 24/7. It also reduces the need to pay for private medical insurance or monthly healthcare contributions.”
However, he cautioned that implementation would not be without challenges.
“The main issues for Socso and the government would be budgetary constraints, given the higher probability of accidents occurring outside the workplace.
“Administration is another challenge as providing true 24/7 service requires extensive resources and coordination.”
He added that the policy could also reshape employer behaviour, promoting better workplace safety and healthier work-life balance.
“Employees may enjoy peace of mind knowing they are covered all the time while employers could potentially lower their medical-related expenditure.”
Universiti Malaysia Kelantan human resource expert Prof Dr Balakrishnan Parasuraman said the initiative represents a long-overdue shift in Malaysia’s labour protection framework, which still reflects the structure of traditional, fixed-hour employment.
“From 1969 until the Covid-19 pandemic, most jobs were fixed on-site positions and workers were only protected during office hours.
“The pandemic changed everything, introducing hybrid, remote and gig-based work, yet the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 still mirrors an older era.”
He said the reform is both timely and necessary.
“With evolving industrial needs and new forms of work, it is crucial to review and update the law to ensure comprehensive protection. The rise of gig and hybrid work demands stronger social safety nets.”
He stressed that clear policies and governance would be vital to prevent misuse and ensure fairness.
“Employers must foster trust and ethics while Socso ensures transparency in handling cases.
“Proper monitoring and evidence-based reporting are key to verifying whether incidents occur during or outside working hours.”
He said the new framework could also benefit employers.
“As more organisations adopt work-from-home arrangements, such a scheme could ensure fair protection for all parties. The International Labour Organisation and multinational models could serve as useful references.”
Balakrishnan said sustainable implementation would require strong cooperation between the government, employers and unions.
“Tripartism is vital. Human resource departments should also play a stronger role in monitoring non-work-related accidents and ensuring transparent claims processes, especially for SMEs and micro industries.”
He urged Socso to issue clear operational guidelines to avoid confusion and potential misuse.
“Since commuting accidents or hybrid work injuries could blur the definition of ‘work-related’, consistent criteria and transparent procedures would help protect employers and employees.
“For instance, employees who live in Ipoh but work in Kuala Lumpur may face accidents while commuting. It would be unfair if such incidents are excluded from coverage as the accident occurred during travel for work purposes.”
Both experts said if implemented effectively, Lindung 24/7 could mark a significant milestone in Malaysia’s social security evolution, ensuring the country’s labour protection system keeps pace with a modern, flexible workforce.
