Worker's Successful PERKESO Appeal Highlights Need For Expanded Social Protection

GEORGE TOWN, Dec 14  (Bernama) -- The successful appeal for a Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) claim, involving a worker injured in an accident while commuting home, highlights the need to expand social protection for workers.

Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong said the case involving Ah Aik, 53, a storekeeper who suffered serious injuries, including a broken left leg, in a road accident, was initially rejected due to incomplete documents.

Sim added that the victim also lost his job after the accident and had to rely on his wife’s income from her job at a sewing factory, while supporting their school-going children.

"After the appeal was submitted and processed in accordance with the required procedures and legal provisions, PERKESO approved the claim," he said in a Facebook post today.

He further said that he handed over cheque for RM9,100 to Ah Aik today, with other benefits to be managed by PERKESO.

Sim said the case was recognised as an occupational hazard because the accident occurred while the victim was commuting home from work, thus qualifying him for coverage under the existing scheme.

However, he pointed out a gap in the current social security system, where workers who stop for personal errands, such as buying food or dropping off children, are not covered by workplace injury protections if an accident occurs during these activities.

As such, he said the 24-Hour Protection Bill, passed in the Dewan Rakyat earlier this month, seeks to provide more comprehensive social protection that reflects the realities of workers' lives.

Sim added that the bill is scheduled to be presented in the Dewan Negara on Dec 17 and expressed hope for its prompt approval and implementation.

-- BERNAMA