Kuala lumpur: The government has been urged to consider providing subsidies or matching contributions during the early phase of the Work-Related Accidents Social Protection Scheme (SKBBK) or LINDUNG 24 Jam, particularly for the B40 and lower-income M40 groups, gig economy workers, contract workers, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM) president Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin emphasized that the measure is needed to ensure the scheme functions as a fair, sustainable, and trusted social protection instrument. He highlighted the importance of considering the financial capacity of workers and employers, given the rising cost of living and business operating costs.
Ahmad Fahmi expressed that achieving good objectives should not result in increased financial burdens on workers and employers, especially MSMEs. LINDUNG 24 Jam, implemented through the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), came into effect on June 1.
He also proposed that the scheme be introduced in phases, considering the readiness of workers, employers, and the current economic situation to ensure a more orderly transition. Ahmad Fahmi suggested establishing a periodic review mechanism to assess implementation effectiveness, claim rates, fund sustainability, and its impact on workers' welfare and business competitiveness, with findings published regularly to strengthen public confidence in the social protection system.
Furthermore, Ahmad Fahmi called for wider engagement with workers, employers, trade unions, professional bodies, academics, and MADANI civil society groups to ensure policy improvements are based on ground realities, transparent data, and best practices. He urged the government to study potential overlaps in coverage for workers already protected under takaful or accident insurance schemes offering similar benefits.
He stressed that any future policy adjustments must not undermine the scheme's core objective as a national social protection instrument. Ahmad Fahmi also stated that strengthening the country's social protection system aligns with Maqasid Syariah, emphasizing the protection of life, dignity, and wellbeing.
He advocated that the cost of strengthening the national social safety net should be shared collectively rather than placed solely on workers and employers. Ahmad Fahmi concluded by urging the government to continue listening to stakeholders and consider improvements to ensure social protection reforms are fair, sustainable, and in the interest of all Malaysians.