LIFE rarely unfolds exactly as we plan it. We can make preparations as best we can and yet, we can never fully expect events to run seamlessly all the time.
This is especially so when we consider occurrences such as mishaps and accidents that can up-end the day for many, even those who are just casually involved.
For those directly affected, it could mean something fatal: a loss of property, a limb or, the ultimate tragedy, the loss of a life.
Such unforeseeable events remind us that life is unpredictable and often leave us thinking not just about ourselves, but also about the people who count on us.
The Elmina tragedy back in 2023 reminds us how fragile life truly is. In the blink of an eye, everything we hold dear can be gone.
This is where the importance of a protection network lies. It is not just policy written on paper, but an umbrella that protects us when the skies suddenly turn dark.
Safeguarding the future of families and dependents
A victim of that tragedy, Muhammad Hafiz Muhamad Salleh, left his family behind – his father Muhamad Salleh Othman; mother Jamilah Ismail; and younger brother Muhammad Hamidi. Such a loss is irreplaceable. Yet, in their darkest moment, PERKESO was there. Offering sympathy manifested through the protection already in place.
Today the family receives a monthly PERKESO pension of RM1,894.75. This may seem like just a number on paper, but for them it is the lifeline that allows them to go on. It is the space to rise again after their world has fallen apart.
This is the true meaning of social protection. It cannot bring Hafiz back, but it ensures his parents and brother are not left alone. PERKESO stands as a protector when the people need it most, keeping families from collapsing in the face of tragedy and ensuring that hope still shines.
Expanding safety net: Gig Workers Bill 2025
Our commitment to safeguarding every segment of society remains unwavering.
This was affirmed when Parliament passed the Gig Workers Bill 2025, a landmark that positions Malaysia as a global leader in extending protection to those in the informal sector.
The bill reflects the Madani Government’s aspiration to leave no one behind in the social protection system, including more than 1.2 million gig workers who have long faced uncertainty.
Through this bill, gig workers in sectors such as e-hailing and p-hailing will now enjoy more comprehensive social security protection, on par with conventional employees.
This is not merely a new policy, but an official recognition of the role and contribution of gig workers to the national economy.
It also sends a clear and powerful message while work models may change, and their right to protection remains intact.
Malaysia can lead in global social protection
As host of the World Social Security Forum (WSSF) 2025, Malaysia is proud to share the achievements we have attained.
These successes did not come easily, but through tireless effort, perseverance, and hard work.
With this year’s forum themed “Shaping Social Security for a World in Transition”, we will explore the challenges and opportunities arising from global demographic changes, labour market dynamics, technological developments and the push for sustainability.
These are all relevant topics that will shape the future of social security that we need to integrate into our systems.
WSSF 2025 will also be a strategic platform to explore bold ideas and forward-thinking innovations, to strengthen our social security systems – augmenting them to become more relevant, inclusive and resilient to face today’s global challenges.
The sharing of insights from global figures and pioneers in social security carries great value, which serves as a catalyst for social system reforms to not only protect but also also empower and strengthen community resilience.
As Buya Hamka once said: “There is no shortcut to success; there is always a process and hard work that must be done.” Indeed, that has been our journey all along.
Yet we know that challenges will never end. The next step is to introduce the Non-Employment Injury Scheme (SKBBK) to ensure Malaysians are always protected, day and night, 24 hours a day.
Thus, WSSF 2025 in Kuala Lumpur is not merely another event in the international calendar. We will be expecting over 1,500 delegates from the ISSA’s 336 member organisations in 164 countries, as well as ministers, chief executive officers, technical experts and representatives from international organisations.
It will be a catalyst for bold new ideas, a bond of steadfast commitment, and proof of Malaysia’s and the world’s joint dedication to building a social protection system that is truly inclusive and safeguards everyone.
Steven Sim is the Human Resources Minister of Malaysia.
