Accra:Contributors under the LINDUNG 24 Jam Scheme and those making mandatory contributions to the LINDUNG Kendiri Scheme are set to receive an additional tax relief of up to RM150 as part of Budget 2027.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) announced that this initiative is expected to benefit over 8.5 million LINDUNG 24 Jam contributors and 1.7 million LINDUNG Kendiri contributors. The LINDUNG 24 Jam Scheme, which has already recorded 10,424 claims in its first four months, highlights the necessity for protection beyond regular working hours. This incentive aims to encourage more individuals to join or rejoin the schemes, thus increasing overall participation.

Budget 2027 also includes a 35 percent matching contribution from PERKESO for e-hailing and p-hailing workers, which rises to 50 percent if platform companies contribute to their social security payments. Additionally, a 70 percent matching contribution incentive will be available to over 200,000 self-employed individuals across 17 non-mandatory sectors, facilitating broader access to social security protection.

PERKESO expressed support for these initiatives and assured that all necessary preparations will be made to enable self-employed individuals to contribute to LINDUNG Kendiri and benefit from the matching contribution incentive. Furthermore, over 40,000 religious functionaries such as imams, bilals, and takmir teachers will also gain from PERKESO coverage, funded by Lembaga Tabung Haji.

Under the Safe and Healthy Driver (PSS) programme, health screening vouchers will be provided to commercial heavy vehicle drivers aged 40 and above. This measure is aimed at facilitating early detection of health issues and minimizing driving-related risks.