KUALA LUMPUR: RM2.12 bil in total compensation was paid by the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) to 219,640 members last year, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said the payments were for permanent or temporary disability, pensions, and invalidity schemes.
Of the total, RM2.1bil was for 215,113 beneficiaries through the employment injury and invalidity scheme under the Employees' Social Security Act 1969.
RM26.54 mil was paid to 4,476 recipients under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme which is under provisions of the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017.
RM75,947 was paid in compensation to 51 recipients under the Housewives' Social Security Scheme, through the Housewives' Social Security Act 2022.
Sim also said his ministry is working closely with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to eradicate fraudulent PERKESO claims.
“Internally, a committee has been formed to assess decisions by panel clinics to ensure that (there is no) manipulation or fraud,” he told Datuk Adnan Abu Hassan (BN-Kuala Pilah) during Minister's Question Time on Tuesday (Dec 10).
Sim said the government is also looking at expanding social security coverage beyond working hours.
“Engagements have been held with various ministries, agencies and employees, among others.
“The feedback has been positive so far,” he said, urging MPs to support the relevant Bill when it is tabled.
Datuk Seri Ismail Abd Muttalib (PN-Maran) had asked if coverage would be extended past working hours.
