Penang: The Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) is continuing its nationwide Mega iLINDUNGu Festival to enhance public knowledge about the social protection schemes and benefits it offers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim emphasized the program's importance, particularly in Penang today, following its previous edition in Shah Alam, Selangor. He noted that many contributors remain unaware of the complete range of benefits provided by Perkeso, which include eligibility for claims in the event of accidents, occupational hazards, or disabilities.
Sim elaborated, "Through this festival, we aim to raise public awareness about the advantages of being a Perkeso contributor, as well as the various new schemes that will be introduced, including the Lindung 24/7 scheme, the Lindung Kasih Scheme, and several others," during a press briefing after visiting the Mega iLINDUNG Festival.
The ongoing three-day festival, concluding tomorrow, saw attendance from notable figures such as Perkeso board chairman Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal and Perkeso group chief executive officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz. Sim reported an encouraging response in Penang, with the ministry targeting 30,000 visitors over the event's duration, and over 13,000 participants recorded so far.
Additionally, Sim, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bukit Mertajam, announced that Perkeso is providing up to 80% discounts on the Late Payment Contribution Benefit (FCLB) to employers during the festival. This initiative aims to help settle outstanding contributions and promote better adherence to employees' social security responsibilities.
He revealed that 70 employers have appealed for FCLB payments totaling RM205,185, with Perkeso granting an 80% reduction, equivalent to RM164,000, during the Penang segment of the festival. Sim also recounted that the festival's first edition in Shah Alam recorded contributions exceeding RM251,000 from 466 employers. While the total FCLB owed by all employers was RM2.08 million, discounts were provided.
"Usually, FCLB discounts are offered in April each year and sometimes extended into May. However, offering them specially during this festival demonstrates the commitment of the Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) to ensure that no worker in Malaysia is marginalised or left without protection," Sim added.
The Mega iLINDUNGu Festival also offers various services, including contribution-checking, registration for the LINDUNG scheme, assistance at service counters, interview sessions, health screenings, and cultural performances.