(Middle, from left) Sim, and Chow posing for a photograph with VIPs and guests during the Deepavali open house organised by the Human Resources Ministry and PERKESO. — Courtesy photo
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim pledged to help transform the lives of Malaysian Indians through education, training and jobs.
He said the government’s goal was not merely to offer temporary relief but to “change a whole generation” within the Indian community through meaningful and sustainable programmes.
“We must move beyond giving small tokens. I want to ensure that our programmes create 1,000 engineers, 1,000 technicians, 1,000 academic officers – people whose success will uplift entire families and reshape our community.”
Sim said he personally monitored reports from the ministry’s Community Care (C2.0) initiative to ensure every ringgit spent produced real impact.
“Every sen must truly change lives. We don’t just give fish or hooks – we give boats and big roads for our children to succeed.”
Sim said this during a Deepavali open house in Penang, jointly organised by the Human Resources Ministry and Social Security Organisation (PERKESO).
Held at the Penang Chinese Town Hall in Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, the celebration drew about 1,000 guests who were treated to good food and entertainment.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow launched the event, which was attended by several state executive councillors and elected representatives.
In his speech, Sim linked his message of empowerment to the essence of Deepavali – the triumph of light over darkness and a journey from dependency to dignity.
Sim also spoke on labour protection measures, including the extension of PERKESO’s coverage to 24 hours a day.
“Workers will now be protected not only during working hours but also when returning home, taking their families out or even while exercising. This is a game changer,” he said.
Citing the case of a worker Sylvie, 55, who fractured an arm in a road accident, Sim said she received RM11,858.40 in compensation under PERKESO’s scheme.
He said the Cabinet had approved amendments to further strengthen the Employment Insurance Scheme that now paid up to 80% of a worker’s salary if they lose their job.
“If someone from Penang loses their job but finds a new one in Kuala Lumpur, we want to ensure their transition is supported, so no family is left behind,” he said.
Chow said Deepavali’s symbolism of light conquering darkness reflected the enduring hope Malaysians must share even in difficult times.
He commended the ministry and PERKESO for upholding worker protection, noting that the Lindung initiative represented compassion, strength and social justice under Malaysia Madani.
“PERKESO is more than an agency – it is the nation’s shield of well-being,” Chow said.
He said Penang’s reputation as a progressive, technology-driven state was made possible by its hardworking citizens, from hawkers and delivery riders to engineers and entrepreneurs – each contributing to the Penang2030 vision of shared prosperity.
“Like the meaning of Deepavali, even a small light can bring great change,” he said.
