What is SOCSO: Your Comprehensive Guide to Malaysia's Social Security Organization

In Malaysia, ensuring the welfare of employees is a priority, and the Social Security Organization (SOCSO), also known as PERKESO, plays a crucial role in this mission. This article will delve into SOCSO, its significance, how to find your SOCSO number, eligibility, the claims process, handling workplace accidents, and more.

What is SOCSO?

SOCSO, an acronym for the Social Security Organization, is a government agency in Malaysia that is responsible to provide social security protections to Malaysian employees under the Employees' Social Security Act 1969. In Malay, SOCSO is called PERKESO, which stands for Pertubuhan Keselamatan Sosial.

What is PERKESO?

PERKESO, synonymous with SOCSO, is the Malay term for the Social Security Organization. It functions as the same entity and serves the same purpose of safeguarding the well-being of Malaysian workers. PERKESO ensures that employees are covered for work-related injuries, illnesses, and disabilities, offering financial aid and medical support.

The Function of SOCSO (Social Security Organization)

Providing Financial Protection

SOCSO offers financial assistance to employees and their dependents in workplace accidents, occupational diseases, or death.

Medical Benefits

SOCSO ensures that injured or ill employees receive the necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation services to aid their recovery.

Employment Injury Insurance Scheme

This scheme covers accidents or diseases that occur during work or while travelling for work-related purposes. It includes medical care, temporary or permanent disability, and dependents' benefits.

Invalidity Pension Scheme

This scheme provides financial support to employees who suffer from invalidity or are unable to work due to health conditions that are not work-related. It also covers dependents in the event of the employee's death.

Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits Promotion

SOCSO promotes vocational rehabilitation benefits to help injured or disabled employees return to work. These benefits include training and support to ensure they can rejoin the workforce in a suitable capacity.

How do You Check Your SOCSO Number Using Your IC?

Finding your SOCSO number is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Online Inquiry: Visit the SOCSO website and use the online inquiry system. You must enter your IC (Identity Card) number to retrieve your SOCSO number.

2. SOCSO Offices: You can visit any SOCSO office with your IC to get assistance from the staff.

3. Employer Records: Your employer should have your SOCSO number as they are responsible for registering employees and making contributions.

Who is Eligible for SOCSO?

Eligibility for SOCSO coverage includes:

1. All Employees: Malaysian employees under a contract or apprenticeship in the private sector and contractual or temp staff in the public sector.

2. Self-Employed Individuals: Certain self-employed individuals, such as taxi drivers and e-hailing drivers, are also eligible for SOCSO under specific schemes.

3. Domestic Workers: As of January 2020, domestic workers are also covered under SOCSO.

4. Foreign Employees: Foreign employees working in Malaysia are also covered under specific SOCSO schemes, ensuring they receive protections similar to those of local employees.

5. Permanent Residents: Permanent resident employees are eligible for SOCSO benefits, similar to Malaysian citizens.

How to Claim SOCSO?

The process of claiming SOCSO benefits involves several steps:

1. Report the Incident: Notify your employer immediately if you are involved in a workplace accident or diagnosed with an occupational disease.

2. Submit Claim Form: Complete the relevant claim form (Form 34 for accidents, Form PKS for occupational diseases) and submit it to SOCSO along with supporting documents such as medical reports and police reports (if applicable).

3. Medical Examination: SOCSO may require a medical examination to assess the extent of the injury or illness.

4. Approval and Disbursement: SOCSO will disburse the benefits directly to you or your dependents.

Handling Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents are a critical concern for SOCSO. Here's what you need to do in case of a workplace accident:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Ensure you receive medical treatment immediately after the accident.

2. Inform Your Employer: Report the accident to your employer immediately.

3. Document the Incident: Keep a detailed accident record, including time, location, and any witnesses.

4. Submit a Claim: File a claim with SOCSO using Form 34 and include all relevant documents.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SOCSO (PERKESO)

How Much Does SOCSO Cost?

SOCSO monthly contributions are shared between employers and employees. The contribution rates of two social security schemes are as follows:

1. Employment Injury Scheme: Employers contribute 1.25% of the employee's monthly wages.

2. Invalidity Scheme: Employers contribute 0.5%, and employees contribute 0.5% of the employee's monthly wages.

How Many Days MC Can Claim SOCSO?

Employees can claim SOCSO benefits for medical leave (MC) starting from the fourth day of medical leave, provided the leave is certified by a registered medical practitioner. SOCSO will cover up to 180 days of medical leave.

How Much Can SOCSO Claim for an Accident?

The amount you can claim for an accident under SOCSO depends on the severity and nature of the injury. SOCSO provides:

1. Temporary Disability Benefits: 80% of your average daily wages.

2. Permanent Disability Benefits: A lump sum or monthly pension based on the degree of disability and your monthly wages.

How Do You Register EPF and SOCSO for a New Employee?

To register a new local or foreign employee for EPF and SOCSO:

1. EPF Registration: Employers can register new employees online through the KWSP i-Akaun (Employer) portal or by submitting Form KWSP 3 (Employee Registration) at any EPF office.

2. SOCSO Registration: Employers can register new employees online through the ASSIST portal on the SOCSO website or by submitting Form 2 (Employee Registration) at any SOCSO office.

How to Remove an Employee from SOCSO?

To remove an employee from SOCSO:

1. Complete Form 1A: Fill out Form 1A (Notification of Employee Cessation).

2. Submit Form: Submit the completed form to the nearest SOCSO office or via the ASSIST portal.

How to Check SOCSO Contribution?

You can check your SOCSO contribution through the following:

1. SOCSO Website: Use the online inquiry system on the SOCSO website by entering your IC number.

2. Mobile App: Download the SOCSO Assist Mobile App and log in to check your contribution details.

3. SOCSO Offices: Visit any SOCSO office for assistance.

Can We Claim SOCSO After Retirement?

No, SOCSO benefits are not claimable after retirement. However, the benefits can still be provided if an injury or illness occurred before retirement and the claim process was initiated.

What Wages Are Subject to SOCSO Contribution?

SOCSO contributions are based on an employee's monthly wages, which include:

1. Basic Salary

2. Overtime Payments

3. Commissions

4. Service Charge

5. Shift Allowance

6. Incentive Payments

7. Arrears of Wages

What Is the Tragedy Strikes Provision?

The tragedy strikes provision under SOCSO ensures that employees and their dependents receive financial support and assistance in the unfortunate event of a work-related injury, illness, or death. This provision highlights SOCSO's commitment to safeguarding employees' welfare during unexpected and challenging times.

Conclusion

SOCSO, or PERKESO, is a cornerstone of Malaysia's social security framework, offering vital protection and support to employees for their occupational safety and health. Understanding what SOCSO is and the benefits it provides is essential for every Malaysian worker. By ensuring financial stability and access to necessary medical services, SOCSO plays a crucial role in enhancing the welfare and security of the nation's workforce.

For more information on SOCSO and how it can benefit you, visit the official SOCSO/PERKESO website or contact their customer service centres.

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