Kuala Lumpur: The Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) has successfully disbursed benefits amounting to RM4.23 million to 3,426 housewives over the course of two years since 2022.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SOCSO Housewives’ Social Security Committee Chairperson Kasthuri Patto highlighted the achievement as part of the agency’s broader initiative, which saw the registration of 514,105 housewives last year. This figure exceeds the target set by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim by more than 100 per cent.

Kasthuri explained that out of the total registered housewives, 88 per cent, equivalent to 452,781 women, were receiving eKasih assistance. An additional nine per cent, or 43,901 women, contributed voluntarily, while the remaining three per cent, or 17,423 women, were sponsored by 103 agencies.

Kasthuri emphasized the benefits of the programme, stating, “With this protection, housewives who previously lacked financial safety now receive improved support in handling emergencies such as accidents, loss of income due to injuries, or serious illnesses.” She further noted the programme’s success as a testament to the crucial role of continued support from the government, corporate sector, and society in bolstering the nation’s social protection system.

Despite the programme’s achievements, Kasthuri pointed out that many housewives remain unregistered, either through family members or their workplaces. She urged increased registration efforts and highlighted that under Section 44(6) of the Income Tax Act 1967, companies that sponsor contributions for housewives can benefit from tax reliefs.

As of December 2024, 14 out of the 103 sponsoring agencies have received tax reliefs amounting to RM587,040, which covers insurance sponsorship for 4,892 women. Kasthuri concluded by stating, “The tax relief not only reduces the financial burden on companies but also serves as an incentive for more corporate entities to participate in this effort, which undoubtedly benefits women.”