PERKESO revises LINDUNG 24 Jam FAQ as scheme turns voluntary for local employees

The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) has revised its frequently asked questions on the LINDUNG 24 Jam scheme, expanding the document to 65 questions from 45 previously, as the scheme moves from a compulsory to a voluntary model for local employees.

The updated FAQ, labelled Version 2.3, reflects the Cabinet decision of July 8, 2026, under which participation is voluntary for local employees but remains mandatory for foreign workers. The earlier version had stated that contributions were mandatory for all employees covered under Act 4.

Among the key clarifications, PERKESO said contributions for June 2026 remain mandatory and are not refundable, as the amended Act made coverage compulsory from June 1, 2026. Employers must still deduct any June shortfall from employees' wages.

Refunds apply only to contributions from July 2026 onwards, and may be claimed only by employers through the ASSIST portal.

The FAQ also states that an employee who opts in partway through a month must contribute on the full month's wages. At the first phase rate of 0.75%, an employee earning RM4,000 would contribute RM30 for that month.

On administration, employers can check which employees are participating via ASSIST, where they are marked with a # symbol, and will be notified by PERKESO of any opt-out or opt-in. New employees are to be registered on ASSIST, with deductions starting from the first month's salary. Foreign workers with more than one employer are to select the deducting employer at a PERKESO counter.

The revised document also changes how the medical benefit is described. The earlier FAQ referred to free treatment at PERKESO panel clinics or government facilities, while Version 2.3 refers to treatment at private clinics or government facilities through reimbursement, known as Bayaran Ganti Belanja, at government hospital rates.

The FAQ further clarifies that employers are not required to certify accidents under the scheme, and that whether wages are paid during temporary disablement leave depends on the employment contract under the Employment Act 1955.

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