Kuala Lumpur:Contributors who lose their jobs from today and meet the eligibility criteria can apply for benefits under the Employment Insurance System and Employment Services Act 2017 (Act 800) at revised rates, effective immediately.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) announced that the amendments to Act 800, which were gazetted on September 15, introduce three benefit enhancements. These include increasing the Early Re-employment Allowance (EBSA) to 50% of the remaining Job Search Allowance (EMP), up from 25%.

The maximum limit for Training Fees has been raised to RM7,000 from the previous RM4,000, and the Training Allowance has increased to RM30 per day. Additionally, a new benefit called the Mobility Assistance Allowance (EBM) is introduced. This offers a one-off payment of RM1,000 for contributors who have lost their jobs, are receiving EIS benefits, and secure new employment over 100 kilometers from their residence.

Eligible contributors can apply for these benefits online via the LINDUNG Kerjaya portal or at any SOCSO counter. These improvements, which average RM3,300 per individual, will benefit over seven million contributors and are anticipated to stimulate the national labor market and facilitate faster career transitions.

SOCSO emphasizes that these reforms not only strengthen the social safety net but are also supported by a comprehensive career transition mechanism. This includes job-matching services via the MYFutureJobs portal, career counseling, retraining, upskilling, and mobility support to safeguard the community's socioeconomic well-being.

The amendments to Act 800 complement the MADANI Government's agenda to enhance social protection comprehensively, aligning with the LINDUNG 24 Jam implementation on June 1. SOCSO remains committed to evolving social protection to ensure contributors are equipped with the skills, opportunities, and support needed to return to work swiftly, ensuring a more secure future for them.