Lindung 24 Jam U-turn raises questions over govt's motives and employees' protection

The government's decision to make the Non-Employment Injury Scheme (Lindung 24 Jam) voluntary for Malaysian employees after barely one month of mandatory implementation suggests that public objections, ala "public feedback" cannot be ignored.

The removal of compulsory contributions does not appear to be a voluntary concession by the government but a policy U-turn following strong public opposition. At a time when Malaysians are grappling with rising costs of living, ending mandatory salary deductions gives workers some relief and slightly improves their purchasing power.