Kuala lumpur: The proposed amendment to the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 is expected to be tabled at the next Parliamentary session, said Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan. He stated that the amendment aims to expand Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) coverage to include Malaysians working overseas and will be tabled in Parliament after obtaining approval from the Cabinet.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ramanan emphasized that the Deputy Minister and he will bring the Bill to Parliament following Cabinet approval. The Act is anticipated to be enforced this year once passed, as it is crucial to address the safety and health of workers. The announcement was made during the National-Level World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026 celebration, which was also attended by Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan.
Ramanan highlighted the importance of the amendment in safeguarding the welfare of Malaysian workers abroad, particularly those in neighboring countries. He noted that approximately 480,000 Malaysians commute to Singapore for work, with 54 fatal accidents recorded last year. Ramanan stressed that these workers deserve the same protection as their counterparts in Malaysia. The scheme has been meticulously designed to prevent abuse, with SOCSO having a defined implementation framework.
The event also marked the launch of the Guidelines for Occupational Safety and Health Regulations (Construction Work) (Design and Management), 2026 Edition. Khairul Firdaus commented that the guidelines have been enhanced to improve governance of occupational safety and health, especially in the construction sector, while placing greater emphasis on mental health issues.
Khairul Firdaus also noted that workplace safety has been a focus, but issues like depression, bullying, and mental health problems at work are often overlooked. This year's theme, 'Together to Ensure a Healthy Psychosocial Work Environment,' aims to address these issues comprehensively. Employers, including those in the gig economy, receive guidelines, briefings, and support services from the ministry through relevant agencies to maintain a safe and healthy working environment.