Social Security Organisation Disbursed RM5.82 Billion in Benefits to 871,949 Recipients in 2024
The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) disbursed a total of RM5.82 billion in benefits to 871,949 recipients in 2024, said Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong.
Higher Payout Compared to Previous Years
The total benefits paid out were higher compared to the RM5.48 billion distributed to 920,368 recipients in 2023 and RM4.92 billion to 866,666 recipients in 2022.
Breakdown of Benefits
The highest payout was for survivors pension, amounting to RM2.412 billion, followed by invalidity pensions at RM1.195 billion and over RM627 million in permanent disability benefits. The enforcement of the new salary ceiling for contributions, which was raised from RM5,000 to RM6,000 effective October 1, has resulted in broader and improved benefit payments.
Concerns Over Non-Occupational Incidents
However, Minister Sim expressed concern over the 177 cases of accidents recorded in January this year that were classified as non-occupational incidents, leaving affected workers without coverage. He emphasized that under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), protection is only provided if an accident is classified as a workplace incident or an occupational disease.
Implementing the Non-Occupational Accident Scheme (SKBBK)
"The figure is alarming. Last year, PERKESO recorded 80,166 accident cases, averaging 6,680 cases per month or 219 per day. However, in just January this year, the number of non-occupational accidents has already reached nearly 200. We must remember that these 177 cases involve workers who are also husbands, wives, parents, and children, yet they are left without coverage. That’s why I want to implement the Non-Occupational Accident Scheme (SKBBK) to ensure round-the-clock protection," he said.
PERKESO’s Iftar Event and Hari Raya Celebration
At the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma)-PERKESO Iftar event, Minister Sim presented benefits to nine recipients and distributed Aidilfitri assistance in cash and hampers to more than 120 orphans, widows, and guardians. He also launched PERKESO’s Hari Raya advertisement titled Demi Kasih.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) has made significant progress in disbursing benefits to eligible recipients, with a total of RM5.82 billion paid out in 2024. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all workers are protected, regardless of whether they are injured in a workplace accident or a non-occupational incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much was disbursed by PERKESO in 2024?
A: RM5.82 billion
Q: How many recipients received benefits in 2024?
A: 871,949
Q: What is the highest payout category for benefits in 2024?
A: Survivors pension, amounting to RM2.412 billion
Q: What is the new salary ceiling for contributions, effective October 1?
A: RM6,000
Q: What is the Non-Occupational Accident Scheme (SKBBK)?
A: A scheme to provide protection for workers who are injured in non-occupational incidents.
Note: The information in this article is based on the provided text and may not be exhaustive or entirely accurate. It is for general information purposes only.