KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — The Social Security Organisation (Socso) said today that it paid out more than RM1.2 million under the Non-Employment Injury Scheme (Lindung 24 Hours) within the first month of its implementation.
From June 1 to 30, the largest benefit payout under the Lindung 24 Hours scheme was for implant costs amounting to RM1.16 million, followed by RM99,269 in Temporary Disablement Benefit (FHUS) payments.
A total of 592 claims under Lindung 24 Hours were submitted to Socso in that one month.
“On average, nearly 20 cases a day have been recorded under Lindung 24 Hours, demonstrating Socso’s commitment to closing gaps in Malaysia’s social protection system,” said Socso in a statement today.
“In the past, accidents occurring outside working hours were not covered. With Lindung 24 Hours, that situation has changed.
“Social protection is no longer focused solely on commuting accidents or workplace incidents, but has become more comprehensive, extending protection even when individuals are at home.”
Besides FHUS, which provides income replacement to contributors while they are on medical leave and unable to work, Lindung 24 Hours also covers payments for medical treatment and surgery, implant costs, the Permanent Disablement Benefit (FHUK) based on assessments by the Medical Board, the Dependants’ Benefit (FOT), the Constant Attendance Allowance (ELS), as well as rehabilitation treatment at Socso rehabilitation centres.
“For the record, the total benefits disbursed by Socso under Lindung 24 Hours to date do not yet include unlimited rehabilitation services provided to contributors,” Socso added.
Socso’s statement was issued following heavy criticism by Malaysians about statutory contributions to Lindung 24 Hours, with some claiming that the agency used RM665 million for staff salaries and bonuses.
Many Malaysians said the contributions to Lindung 24 Hours – which are fully borne by employees and set at a rate of 0.75 per cent for the first two years under Phase One – should be optional.
Lindung 24 Hours was introduced to provide round-the-clock protection for eligible employees throughout their employment period, including coverage for accidents that occur outside working hours and are not directly related to their job or duties.
