SOCSO Plans 24-Hour Social Security Protection

Samuel Chua

8th September 2025 - 2 min read

The Ministry of Human Resources is preparing amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4). The changes aim to extend 24-hour social security protection to employees registered under the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO).

Human Resources Minister Steven Sim explained that the proposed amendments have already received Cabinet approval. The bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year, subject to the legislative process.

Expanded Coverage to Protect More Malaysian Workers

At present, SOCSO protection is limited to incidents directly linked to employment. Under the proposed amendments, coverage would extend beyond official working hours, offering employees continuous protection throughout the day.

Sim noted that this expansion is significant, as only 40% of Malaysians are currently covered by private insurance. The extended framework would help close the protection gap by ensuring workers have access to treatment, rehabilitation, and other support services in the event of unforeseen incidents.

The measure is also intended to safeguard the well-being of employees while maintaining a resilient and competitive national workforce.

Comprehensive Review of Labour Laws Underway

Alongside the SOCSO amendments, the ministry has initiated a review of 28 labour-related laws. The exercise is intended to ensure that Malaysia’s legislation continues to meet current needs and standards for worker protection.

The review covers major frameworks such as the Employment Act 1955, the Sabah Labour Ordinance, and the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.

Free Legal Aid for Workers at Industrial Court

The ministry has also introduced an initiative to provide free legal assistance at the Industrial Court for low-income workers. The service is offered in partnership with the Bar Council, the Sabah Law Society, and the Advocates Association of Sarawak.

This measure is designed to give workers with limited financial means better access to justice in employment-related disputes.

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