SOCIAL Security Organisation (Socso) contributors can now enjoy free medical treatment at the 1,400 panel clinics throughout the country, announced the Human Resources Minister.
Steven Sim Chee Keong said this new incentive is part of efforts to honour the country's workforce, who are a backbone towards driving the economy and to alleviate living costs.
It is believed that over six million Socso contributors stand to benefit from this move.
"I want to announce that beginning this year, workers covered under Socso can just walk into any of our 1,400 panel clinics and get free medical treatment. ‘They don't have to pay a single cent. Just walk in and show your MyKad and if the clinic verifies you are covered by Socso, then you don't have to pay. We (government) will pay directly to the clinics," said Sim.
This will definitely make it easier and affordable for workers seeking medical treatment, he added.
Employers will also benefit when they don't have to help fork out medical expenses, said Sim when attending the Penang Socso Lunar New Year open - house celebrations.
The Bukit Mertajam MP acknowledged that Socso has played a significant role for workers.
"We want to ensure you are safe in your workplace and if you ever face any disaster, we are there for you.
“We have improved several policies last year, increasing 20% benefits for the 1.5 million workers affected by workplace mishaps.
“We are also studying about increasing the amount of payouts too."
He also disclosed that for occupational - related accidents and illness, the workers can also seek treatment at the1,400 panel clinic all over the country including 129 clinics in Penang.
Last year almost RM8 million in claims from about 20,000 visits to clinics by workers, were recorded by Socso.
Each visit cost the workers welfare authority about RM150 to RM200.
"In the past when a worker went to the clinic, he or she had to pay first then only claim later from Socso and it could take up to a month to process the claim. Sometimes, the employers have to pay for their lower income staff."
Sim also said that diversity in the country is a strength and not something to frown about.
"Today is the Chinese New Year, next week is Thaipusam and soon the Holy Ramadan Month and followed by the Hari Raya celebrations. Our diversity is our strength."
And it helps boost the economy, as Malaysian workers are versatile and can command various languages, showcasing their ability to communicate with the rest of the world, said Sim.
He stressed that the ministry wants to ensure a good, healthy, safe, prosperous working environment for all Malaysians. - February 8, 2025.
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