SOCSO Malaysia 2026 Update: Not Just Workplace Injury Coverage Anymore?

Many employees and employers have always assumed that:

👉 SOCSO / PERKESO only covers workplace injuries
👉 Or accidents that happen while commuting to work

However, starting from June 2026, Malaysia is expected to introduce a new protection scheme known as:

🛡️ Skim LINDUNG 24 Jam (24-Hour Protection Scheme)

Under this updated initiative, SOCSO protection may be expanded beyond traditional employment-related injuries to include certain non-work-related accidents.

📌 What Does This Mean?

【Previously】

SOCSO mainly covered:

✔ Injuries during working hours
✔ Accidents while travelling to and from work

【Now】

Under the proposed new scheme, situations such as the following may also be covered:

✔ Slipping and falling at home
✔ Weekend accidents
✔ Injuries while grocery shopping
✔ Sports or exercise-related accidents
✔ Other non-work-related accidental injuries

In simple terms:

👉 SOCSO is no longer limited to “workplace injury protection”
👉 It may evolve into a broader 24-hour social protection scheme

💰 Who Pays for It?

Based on currently released information:

📌 The contribution is expected to be mandatory
📌 The additional contribution will be borne by employees

Proposed phased contribution increases:

• 2026–2027: +0.75%

• 2028–2030: +1.00%

• From 2031 onwards: +1.25%

⚠️ Actual contribution calculations may still depend on PERKESO’s final official guidelines and salary schedules.

👨‍💼 Important Things Employers & HR Should Take Note Of

This update is not only important for employees — employers must also prepare operationally and from a compliance perspective.

📌 Payroll System Updates

Payroll systems may need to be updated to avoid incorrect deductions or missed contributions.

📌 Employee Communication

HR and employers should be prepared to explain the new SOCSO coverage mechanism to employees.

📌 Claim Assistance

In the event of accidents, employers may still need to assist employees with claim documentation and procedures.

📌 Compliance Responsibilities

Incorrect deductions or non-compliance may expose companies to penalties or compliance risks.

💡 Why Is This Being Introduced?

The purpose of the proposed LINDUNG 24 Jam scheme is to provide broader social protection coverage and reduce the financial burden on employees and families when accidents happen outside working hours.

The initiative also reflects Malaysia’s effort to strengthen its overall social security system.

⚠️ Important Reminder

Some implementation details — including final contribution structures and operational guidelines — may still change depending on future PERKESO announcements. Employers are encouraged to stay updated with official releases and prepare early for payroll and HR adjustments.

📌 Final Thoughts

Starting from 2026, SOCSO may no longer be limited to workplace injury protection only.

For employees, this could mean broader 24-hour protection coverage.
For employers, it also means additional payroll adjustments and compliance responsibilities.

Need assistance with payroll processing, SOCSO compliance, HR matters, or payroll system updates? Contact HBA Global for professional support and guidance.