KUCHING: The Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division welcomed the federal government’s initiative to introduce the Lindung 24/7 scheme under proposed amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969.
The Bill, tabled for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat recently, seeks to broaden social security protection to cover accidents that occur outside official working hours.
MTUC Sarawak chairman Zaidi Nasar described the amendment as a progressive move to strengthen Malaysia’s social protection framework, in line with modern and flexible work trends such as remote work and the gig economy.
“This initiative recognises that work-related pressures and risks do not end when employees leave the workplace.
“Accidents can happen anytime, and workers deserve continuous protection,” he said in a statement.
The Lindung 24/7 scheme offers comprehensive coverage, including medical benefits, temporary and permanent disablement benefits, dependents’ benefits and funeral management benefits.
For instance, a worker injured during recreational activities such as cycling or jogging after work hours would still be eligible for protection under the scheme.
Zaidi noted that only 40 per cent of workers currently have private insurance, adding that the new scheme will help close this protection gap.
He also said the initiative aligns with the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Decent Work Agenda, which calls for inclusive and continuous social protection for all workers.
“The ILO has long emphasised that protection should not be limited to working hours alone, as life’s risks exist around the clock,” he added.
Zaidi pointed out that countries such as Germany, France and South Korea have already implemented similar 24-hour protection models, which have strengthened worker confidence, reduced family financial burdens and enhanced national productivity.
MTUC Sarawak also highlighted that the proposed amendments are consistent with ILO Conventions No. 102 (Minimum Standards of Social Security) and No. 187 (Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health), both advocating comprehensive social protection and a culture of risk prevention.
To ensure effective implementation, Zaidi called for inclusive stakeholder engagement involving the government, trade unions, employers and employees.
He also urged for grassroots awareness campaigns to help workers understand the importance of 24/7 protection with clear explanations on contribution rates to help both employers and employees adapt smoothly.
“MTUC Sarawak believes this reform is a forward-looking measure that will enhance the welfare and resilience of Malaysian workers.
“Comprehensive social protection is the foundation of a productive, safe and sustainable workforce. With ‘Lindung 24/7’, no worker should be left without protection,” he said.
