KUCHING: The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division has given its full support for the Employment Insurance System (Amendment) Bill 2025, tabled for first reading in the Dewan Rakyat recently.
The union described the proposed amendments to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800) as a timely and positive move to strengthen the country’s social protection network, particularly in assisting workers who lose their jobs due to shifts in the labour market and current economic challenges.
MTUC Sarawak said in a statement that the introduction of new benefits and the enhancement of existing ones reflect the government’s concern for the welfare of workers.
Among the improvements welcomed by the union are the introduction of the Mobility Assistance Allowance (EBM), which provides up to RM1,000 to help job seekers report for duty at workplaces located far from their original residence.
The union also lauded the increase in the Training Allowance (EL) from RM20 to RM30 per day, the Training Fee (FL) ceiling from RM4,000 to RM7,000, and the Early Re-employment Allowance (EBSA) rate from 25 percent to 50 percent of the remaining Job Search Allowance (EMP).
“These enhancements not only promote labour mobility but also accelerate job placements among affected PERKESO contributors,” the statement said.
MTUC Sarawak added that the proposed amendments demonstrate the government’s continued commitment to ensuring that Malaysia’s social protection system remains inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of today’s workforce.
The union also urged that the implementation of these amendments be carried out through a comprehensive approach that includes continuous engagement with trade unions to ensure the new benefits reach all layers of workers in Malaysia.
“With these amendments, MTUC Sarawak is confident that the government and PERKESO’s efforts to strengthen the employment protection system will boost workers’ confidence in national social protection policies and enhance the stability of Malaysia’s labour market,” it said.
