KUALA LUMPUR: The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) has approved 136 claims under the Lindung 24 Jam scheme since it came into effect on June 1, involving benefit payments totalling RM672,743.10 to contributors who suffered accidents or injuries outside working hours.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the figure represents 62.9 per cent of the total claims submitted under the new scheme.
"Many people understand that PERKESO provides protection only when accidents occur at the workplace. However, through Lindung 24 Jam, coverage has now been extended to incidents occurring outside working hours, including on rest days and public holidays.
"This proactive measure is aimed at ensuring that insured persons (IPs) who encounter misfortune outside their official working hours continue to receive the protection and assistance they deserve, thereby addressing a gap that previously existed,” he said in a statement on Thursday (June 25).
Ramanan said such comprehensive protection is crucial, as accidents and unforeseen incidents can occur at any time, regardless of when or where they happen, as demonstrated by several of the early cases received under the scheme.
Among the earliest beneficiaries of the Lindung 24 Jam Scheme were Husnizam Hisamudin, 43, and Muhammad Amirul Hazim Misnon, 22, who were involved in a fatal accident in Simpang Renggam, Johor.
In Keningau, Sabah, Community-Based Rehabilitation Organisation (PPDK) employee Brissty Vidalyn Felicianus, 33, also received coverage under the scheme after the vehicle she was travelling in plunged into a ravine while returning from a hiking activity.
"The victim, who suffered a fractured shoulder and right leg, is currently being monitored by PERKESO’s Prihatin Squad and has been confirmed to be receiving income replacement through the Temporary Disablement Benefit throughout her medical leave period.
"The importance of 24-hour coverage was also demonstrated in Perak, involving Chen Chee Ling, 51, a runner for a used-car company, who fractured her right wrist after slipping at an eatery while dining with her family.
Ramanan also reminded employers and employees nationwide to ensure compliance with contribution requirements to guarantee optimal protection, not only while at work but also outside working hours.
"Whether during sports and recreational activities, holidays or daily routines, accidents can change a person’s life in an instant, and these contributions are what help sustain their livelihood,” he said.- Bernama
