Kuala lumpur: The Dewan Rakyat was informed today that a total of 869,913 self-employed individuals have registered and are actively contributing under the Social Security Organisation's (PERKESO) Skim Lindung Kendiri (Self-Employed Scheme) as of December 31, 2025. Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan highlighted that among these contributors, 299,674 are gig-sector workers, including those in the e-hailing industry.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the overall figure indicates an increasing awareness among the self-employed about the significance of social protection, especially given the evolving nature of the job market. The Deputy Minister noted that the rapid digitalisation has transformed the national labour market, leading more young people and individuals from low-income groups to opt for flexible jobs or gigs as their primary income source.

Khairul Firdaus provided this information while responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Sh Mohmed Puzi Sh Ali (BN-Pekan) on evaluating the long-term impact of social protection schemes in the gig economy. He elaborated on the notable differences between permanent employees and gig workers, particularly concerning social security coverage.

To address these differences, the government is focusing on enhancing protection through the Skim Lindung Kendiri, managed by PERKESO, in accordance with the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 (Act 789). The scheme offers comprehensive protection to self-employed individuals against work-related illnesses and accidents.

Additionally, the scheme includes medical benefits, temporary and permanent disability benefits, survivor benefits, funeral management benefits, and education loans. Furthermore, the ministry provides platforms for upskilling and reskilling, ensuring gig workers maintain resilience and secure long-term income continuity.