KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia approaches an ageing population milestone, a total of 317,521 senior citizens aged 60 and above are actively contributing to the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) as of May 31 this year.
According to the Human Resources Ministry, PERKESO's statistics also showed that as of May 31, there are 110,741 self-employed individuals aged 60 and above, who are actively contributing under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS).
"Older workers, aged 60 and above, who are engaged in part-time formal sector employment to sustain their livelihoods, are eligible for protection under the Employment Injury Scheme of the Workers' Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4).
"The contribution rate is determined according to the Second Schedule and is solely paid by the employer," it said in a written Parliament reply to Datuk Seri M. Saravanan (BN-Tapah) on Wednesday (Aug 13).
Saravanan asked if PERKESO has plans to widen its coverage to retirees who are still doing part-time jobs to support themselves.
For self-employed senior citizens in the informal sector, protection is provided under the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 (Act 789).
This Act safeguards individuals from occupational hazards, including work-related illnesses and accidents, even during travel related to their employment activities.
According to the Statistics Department and reports, Malaysia is facing the challenges of an ageing population, with projections indicating that 15.3% of citizens will be aged 60 and above by 2030.
This demographic shift has prompted the government to enhance social security measures for older adults.
The retirement age in Malaysia is currently set at 60, but many seniors continue to work to support themselves, emphasising the need for robust social security protections.
