Malaysian Workers in Singapore to Receive Perkeso Protection This Year

The Malaysian government is set to extend crucial social security protection to its citizens working abroad, with a specific focus on the large contingent of Malaysian workers in Singapore. The implementation of the Social Security Organization (Perkeso) scheme for these cross-border employees is anticipated this year, pending parliamentary approval. This move signifies the government's commitment to ensuring that Malaysians working outside the country receive the same level of social protection as their domestic counterparts.

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Langkah itu mencerminkan kesungguhan kerajaan dalam memastikan semua pekerja termasuk di luar negara menerima perlindungan sosial setara seperti dinikmati pekerja domestik.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan highlighted the government's dedication to accelerating this initiative, driven by concerns over the well-being of these workers. Issues such as work-related stress, heavy workloads, and the need for work-life balance are pressing concerns that require immediate attention. The proposed bill, expected to be presented to Parliament soon, aims to provide a safety net that addresses these challenges, particularly given the average of one death recorded weekly among cross-border workers, as noted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

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Masalah seperti tekanan kerja, beban tugas dan keseimbangan kehidupan memerlukan perhatian segera kerana ia memberi kesan langsung terhadap kesejahteraan mental pekerja.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Human Resources, through Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, has assured that workers in the burgeoning gig economy will not be overlooked. Despite the relatively new nature of gig work legislation, the ministry is establishing clear guidelines for employers to guarantee the welfare of these workers. Strict enforcement and thorough investigations will be undertaken if any employer is found non-compliant with occupational safety and health regulations. This comprehensive approach underscores Malaysia's dedication to safeguarding its workforce, both domestically and internationally, and adapting to the evolving nature of employment.

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Pihak majikan perlu mematuhi panduan yang ditetapkan bagi memastikan persekitaran kerja selamat dan kondusif, termasuk kepada pekerja gig yang semakin berkembang dalam ekonomi semasa.