KUALA LUMPUR: The Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) disbursed a total of RM5.82 billion in benefits to 871,949 recipients in 2024, an increase compared to the RM5.48 billion paid to 920,368 recipients in 2023, said Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong.
Sim highlighted that the highest payout last year was for survivors' pensions, which amounted to RM2.412 billion, followed by RM1.195 billion in invalidity pensions and over RM627 million in permanent disability benefits.
He attributed the broader payouts to the enforcement of the new salary ceiling for contributions, which was raised from RM5,000 to RM6,000 effective Oct 1.
"This adjustment has resulted in broader and improved benefit payments," Sim said in a statement issued during the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma)-Perkeso Iftar event last night.
The event was attended by Kesuma deputy secretary-general (Policy and International) Dr Mohd Shaharin Umar, Perkeso Board chairman Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal, and Perkeso Group CEO Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed.
Sim also raised concerns about the rising number of non-occupational accidents, which left affected workers without coverage.
He noted that 177 such cases were recorded in January this year alone, a figure not covered under the Employees' Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), which only protects workplace incidents or occupational diseases.
"This figure is alarming. Last year, Perkeso recorded 80,166 accident cases, averaging 6,680 per month or 219 per day. However, in just January this year, the number of non-occupational accidents has already reached nearly 200," he said.
He emphasised the importance of addressing this gap, citing the impact on affected workers and their families.
"We must remember that these 177 cases involve workers who are also husbands, wives, parents, and children, yet they are left without coverage. That's why I want to implement the Non-Occupational Accident Scheme (SKBBK) to ensure round-the-clock protection," he added.
At the event, Sim presented benefits to nine recipients and distributed Aidilfitri assistance in cash and hampers to over 120 orphans, widows, and guardians. He also launched Perkeso's Hari Raya advertisement titled Demi Kasih.
