MEF supports PERKESO’s initiative to reduce employee absenteeism and increase productivity

The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) supports the latest initiative by the Social Security Organization (PERKESO), which allows treatment for occupational disaster-related accidents and service-related illnesses at its panel clinics without contributors having to pay upfront.

MEF President, Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman, stated that this treatment facility reduces the financial burden on contributors and their families, especially during difficult times.

“With free medical treatment at PERKESO’s panel clinics, it will ease the burden on contributors and their families who are affected by work-related accidents during challenging times.

“This, in turn, allows contributors or employees to focus on recovery instead of worrying about medical expenses.

“Additionally, it has a positive impact on employers by ensuring that injured workers receive appropriate and timely medical treatment, thus reducing absenteeism issues and increasing productivity in the long term,” he said in a statement today.

Earlier today, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim announced that all PERKESO contributors will no longer have to pay for medical treatment at panel clinics starting this year.

However, Steven stated that this facility only applies to cases involving occupational disaster-related accidents and service-related illnesses, with 1,400 panel clinics nationwide, including 129 in Penang.

He explained that previously, PERKESO contributors had to pay around RM150 to RM200 per treatment and then claim reimbursement from the organization, which could take about a month to process.

Syed Hussain said that free medical access at PERKESO panel clinics indirectly encourages contributors to seek immediate medical attention, preventing complications and enabling a faster recovery.

“This ensures that early intervention plays a crucial role in effectively managing work-related injuries.

“Moreover, with free medical treatment at PERKESO-listed panel clinics, the process of receiving treatment becomes smoother, reducing administrative bureaucracy and ensuring immediate and timely care,” he added.

He stated that the free medical treatment initiative at PERKESO panel clinics is an excellent program with positive impacts on all stakeholders.

“This new initiative ensures that PERKESO contributors who suffer work-related injuries receive immediate medical access without first bearing the financial burden.

“Previously, contributors had to pay in advance and then claim reimbursement, which could delay treatment and create financial stress.

“This is a crucial step in ensuring the health and well-being of PERKESO contributors,” he said.

He also mentioned that this new initiative would help PERKESO contributors recover and return to work more quickly.

“Therefore, this new initiative contributes to the nation’s productivity growth, aligning with the government’s Madani Economic Framework, which aims to position Malaysia among the 12 most competitive countries globally.

“By effectively addressing work-related accidents, PERKESO’s medical treatment initiative raises awareness about workplace safety and encourages both employers and employees to practice better safety and health measures at work,” he stated.

He added that financial constraints previously prevented some PERKESO contributors from seeking timely medical treatment, which could worsen their conditions.

“The direct payment system under this new initiative fosters trust in PERKESO’s commitment to contributors’ welfare, encouraging greater compliance and participation in the scheme.

“This is because the previous reimbursement system sometimes led to dissatisfaction due to delays and disputes over claims,” he said.