KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 - Contributors who lose their jobs starting today and meet the eligibility criteria may apply for benefits under the Employment Insurance System and Employment Services Act 2017 (Act 800) at new rates, effective immediately.
The Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) announced that the new rates result from amendments to Act 800 gazetted on September 15, which introduced three benefit enhancements, including an increase in the Early Re-employment Allowance to 50 per cent of the remaining Job Search Allowance, up from the previous 25 per cent.
It said the maximum limit for Training Fees has also been raised to RM7,000 from RM4,000, alongside an increase in the Training Allowance to RM30 per day.
“These amendments also introduce a new benefit: the Mobility Assistance Allowance. This is a one-off payment of RM1,000 for contributors who have lost their jobs, are receiving EIS (Employment Insurance System) benefits, and subsequently secure new employment more than 100km from their residence.
“Consequently, eligible contributors can apply for this benefit online via the LINDUNG Kerjaya portal or at any nearby SOCSO counter,” SOCSO said today.
It added that these improvements, which provide benefits averaging RM3,300 per individual, will benefit over seven million contributors. They are also expected to stimulate the national labour market and act as a catalyst for faster career transitions.
This latest reform does more than just strengthen the social safety net within the current labour market dynamics, as it is also supported by a comprehensive career transition mechanism.
“The provision of a holistic ecosystem driven by job-matching services via the national MYFutureJobs portal, career counselling, retraining, upskilling, and mobility support will effectively safeguard the socioeconomic well-being of the community,” SOCSO said.
The amendments to Act 800 (formerly known as the Employment Insurance System Act 2017) complement the MADANI government’s agenda to strengthen social protection more comprehensively, in line with the implementation of LINDUNG 24 Jam on June 1.
“Overall, SOCSO is committed to ensuring that social protection evolves alongside the changing landscape of work, going beyond merely assisting contributors during job loss to ensuring they possess the skills, opportunities, and support needed to return to the workforce more quickly.
“Through these amendments and enhancements, every affected contributor is not only protected but also assisted in getting back on their feet, becoming productive again, and building a more secure life,” it said.
