Vimala (front, third from left), Syerleena (second row, fourth from left) with Lim (to her right) in a group photo at the ceremony. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
SOME 100 housewives in Penang have secured formal protection against accidents, disability and death through the Social Security Organisation’s (PERKESO) Lindung programme.
Sponsored by Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid with a RM12,000 contribution, the initiative provides one year of coverage under the Housewives’ Social Security Scheme (SKSSR).
Syerleena said the responsibilities of housewives extended far beyond just household chores, but to the welfare of entire families.
“This is an enduring responsibility that is often overlooked,” she said when handing over subscription receipts to the recipients at PERKESO office in Jalan Burma.
“Housewives play a crucial role in shaping future generations and supporting community well-being, yet many remain exposed to risks without any formal protection. They too deserve to be protected.”
She added that while the scheme marked a step towards social justice and recognition of women’s contributions, she hoped it would inspire more sponsors to broaden social protection coverage.
With contributions as low as RM120 a year, both full-time and part-time housewives are eligible for benefits.
These include domestic accident coverage, as well as protection and assistance for dependants in the event of death.
Among the recipients was single mother K. Vimala, 45, who supports her two sons, aged 13 and 15, while volunteering at Penang’s Senior Citizens Activity Centre.
“As a single mother, I am always thinking about my children’s future. My work at the centre involves caring for senior citizens, and accidents can happen at any time.”
She said the scheme made her feel the contributions of housewives and caregivers were finally being recognised.
“This protection gives me reassurance that my children will not be left without support if something were to happen to me.
“It means a lot, especially for women like us who do not have fixed incomes or formal benefits,” said Vimala.
About 100 self-employed PERKESO contributors were also present.
Mohd Fayadh Mohamad, 33, a food delivery rider and father of one, received a RM100 voucher at the event.
He pays RM19.40 a month for coverage, which protects him while on the road.
“My job involves being outside every day, so the risks are always there. With this protection, I feel more secure knowing that my family will be taken care of if anything happens to me.
“As a father and husband, that assurance is very important,” he said.
Also present at the event were state social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim and PERKESO Penang director Rafidah Abdul Rahim.
The event highlighted the Lindung programme’s role in consolidating all PERKESO services under a single brand.
It provides comprehensive protection across four categories: workers, employment and career (for job seekers), self-employed individuals, and housewives.
