PETALING JAYA: An increase in industrial and commuting accident cases were recorded last year, underscoring the need for stronger preventive measures.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, who said this, added that an assessment showed that cases rose by 7.3%, from 66,574 in 2024 to 71,405 in 2025.
“Upon closer examination, industrial accidents increased by 1.4%, while commuting accidents were up by 13%.
“This underscores the need to plan and implement more structured and effective preventive activities,” he said yesterday during the handover of RM3.9mil in grants to 37 NGOs and institutions for the implementation of occupational safety and health programmes.
Despite the nationwide increase, Khairul Firdaus said 83% of employers under Op Cegah 2025 recorded a reduction in industrial and commuting accident cases compared with the previous year.
He said a total of 7,833 employers participated in the programme, with accident cases among participating employers declining by 33.6% for industrial and 16.7% for commuting accidents respectively.
“Such success demonstrates that the programme has delivered a clear and tangible positive impact in efforts to reduce both industrial and commuting accidents,” he said.
Khairul Firdaus said Op Cegah, now in its fifth year, will adopt a new strategic approach, such as a more comprehensive selection of employers, targeted enforcement focusing on industrial accidents and road safety advocacy aimed at preventing commuting accidents.
He said through PERKESO, five key strategies have been outlined for the programme, including a targeted preventive approach, the Lindung 24/7 scheme, effective collaboration, use of valid and accurate data, and innovative media promotion.
The deputy minister also said PERKESO is targeting the participation of more than 10,000 employers this year, representing an increase of 27.7%.
“They will also work with the police, Occupational Safety and Health Department, Road Transport Department, the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health,” he added.
PERKESO board chairman Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal said responsibility for workplace safety does not rest solely with workers but also with bosses.
He said employers should ensure a safe working environment through the provision of safety training, appropriate personal protective equipment and compliance with established regulations.
“In line with this, PERKESO remains committed to working with all parties to reduce accident risks, including third-party accidents during commuting,” he said.
