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KUALA LUMPUR – Online registration for the Housewives’ Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) implemented by the Social Security Organisation (Socso) last Thursday is now open, according to counter unit chief Jusnita Yaakob at its headquarters here.
She told The Vibes that those interested in registering for the scheme can also head to any Socso branch.
She said the registration process consists of filling up an application form for the scheme, and an annual contribution of RM120 paid to any Socso counter. There is also the option of paying RM240 for two years.
Applicants need to fill up a designated form (SR1) while a separate form will be given if the applicants’ spouses are applying on their behalf. In the event a spouse cannot continue paying deposits for his wife under the scheme, he has to inform the agency 60 days in advance.
Then, applicants, or their representatives, will be given a protective note and receipt to confirm their successful registration, indicating their eligibility to receive a year of coverage (if RM120 is paid), effective immediately.
Jusnita said it is recommended for applicants to bring their MyKads, or a copy, for record purposes.
Registration and payment can be made by the housewife or any next of kin – including those who are not blood-related – as the application will be made under the applicant’s name and information.
She noted that the current eligibility criteria for SKSSR is for applicants to be Malaysian women, permanent residents, and aged below 55 years old.
This, she said, is because the organisation is yet to amend its terms and conditions according to the Housewives’ Social Security Act 2022 (Act 838).
Eligible applicants are also not required to be married, under the condition that they are currently caring for their parents. Single mothers are also eligible for the scheme.
Applicants may also apply if they are part-time housewives. Those with careers may still register for the scheme, granted that they carry out general household activities, or are caring for elders and children.
The scheme is also available to widows and divorcees provided their marriage was registered according to Malaysian law.
Coverage and benefits
The scheme provides benefits like constant attendance allowance, disability benefits, illness allowance, facilities for physical or vocational rehabilitation and dialysis, and funeral benefits.
There is also a survivors’ pension for the applicant’s next of kin after her passing, if she dies before the age of 55. Survivors eligible to receive this pension include her husband if aged below 55, or children below the age of 21, or her parents until the age of 55 or death.
Jusnita said the procedure for claiming benefits will be announced later.
Socso chief executive Datuk Seri Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed recently said in a statement that the scope of “housewife” is open to women both married and single, whether they are managing a household full-time or not, and would include wives, divorcees, widows, single mothers or single women with careers, and full-time housewives.
Socso also said that household management activities are not limited to the daily routine at home, but include other household matters such as taking care of children or elderly parents, dropping off and picking up children from school, and taking parents to the doctors.
Malaysia is currently one out of four countries to provide social security protection specifically for women. – The Vibes, December 3, 2022
