Over RM250K in benefits paid out under Socso scheme for housewives, says Sivakumar

BERNAMApic

SEREMBAN: A total of 177,858 housewives are covered by the Housewives' Social Security Scheme as of June 15, says Human Resources Minister V Sivakumar (pic).

He said a total of RM254,617 in benefits had also been paid to insured housewives and families under the social safety net programme for the period starting Dec 1.

"Housewives are encouraged to register and contribute to the scheme for protection against domestic disasters, disability or death while managing the household.

ALSO READ: Govt targets half a million housewives for Socso in 2023

"I encourage husbands to pay the contribution of RM120 a year for their wives in appreciation of their role and sacrifices towards the family," he said here on Sunday (June 18).

Sivakumar also called on non-governmental organisations and private companies to sponsor contributions to the scheme for the welfare of their employees, as part of their corporate social responsibility.

Earlier, Sivakumar presented Social Security Organisation (Socso) benefits to contributor R Chandran in Taman Desa Temiang here.

Chandran, 40, suffered an accident while working as a salesman at a tobacco company near here in 2012 and received RM14,291.62 after being referred to a panel of doctors to determine permanent disability benefits.

The father of one has right knee trouble which has left him unable to stand for long periods and unable to do heavy work.

ALSO READ: Only 35% take-up rate for Socso's housewife protection scheme, says Sivakumar

Sivakumar said Socso was also looking for a new job for Chandran that took his condition into consideration.

Socso benefits were also presented to private sector worker Leong Tai Hee, 49, who suffered a stroke.

He will receive a pension of RM2,757.08 each month after being referred to a medical panel.

ALSO READ: ‘Protect housewives too’

In another development, Sivakumar said the government will look into the issue of allowance payments for students who undergo industrial training following a report on a public university student who expressed concern about coping with expenses during the stint, scheduled for October.

"For me, this matter (payment of allowances) needs to be given serious attention by the government. It has also been raised in International Labour Organistaion conferences so that it is given due consideration around the world.

"These interns (students undergoing industrial training) cannot be considered free labour. We will look into this matter and I will give feedback soon," he said. – Bernama