KUALA LUMPUR: The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) will provide rehabilitation aid to two media practitioners injured in an accident in Menglembu, Ipoh, on Sunday (Oct 25) morning to support their recovery.
In a statement on Monday (Oct 26), PERKESO said the incident was classified as an employment injury as they were travelling for an official assignment and both were covered under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 under the LINDUNG Pekerja scheme.
Nur Afiradina Arshad, 34, sustained a neck injury requiring a neck brace, abrasions on her body, and a sprained ankle.
"She received treatment at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) and was discharged on Sunday. She has been given one month of medical leave, and PERKESO will provide her with suitable aid upon receiving the medical report from her doctor.
"Meanwhile, Zaharatulhayat Mat Arif, who sustained swelling to her cheek and both hands, received outpatient treatment at HRPB and was given three days of medical leave.
“We will continue to monitor her condition in the event she needs to extend her medical leave for a full recovery,” it said.
According to the organisation, Nur Afiradina, who does not have PERKESO contributions, will have her case referred to the relevant agencies through the Social Synergy programme so that appropriate assistance can be considered based on her needs and eligibility.
In the incident at 5.45am, the car carrying the two journalists was travelling from Ipoh to Bagan Datuk to cover an official programme involving Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
It had stopped at a traffic light junction near Taman Kledang Permai when it was hit from behind by a lorry.
PERKESO said the two victims did not need to visit its office as the PERKESO Prihatin Squad had obtained their information shortly after the incident to facilitate the processing of claims.
"This approach reflects the transformation of PERKESO’s current work culture, which proactively seeks out contributors.
"This change is to ensure that social security protection reaches those in need without delay. The world has changed, and the way we work has to change accordingly. It is no longer the same as before,” it said.
PERKESO also gave its assurance that it would continue to monitor the health of both journalists to ensure that appropriate assistance and support could be given.
"The safety and well-being of media practitioners, who often face high risks in the field, have always been a priority. PERKESO also wishes both journalists a speedy recovery,” it added. – Bernama
