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This Spotlight is sponsored by the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO).
Picture this: You arrive at work on a regular weekday, and HR informs you that your role is ending
As scary as it sounds, this happens more often than we think.
Jobs aren't always lifelong anymore. Companies restructure, projects wrap up faster than expected, or business directions shift. And sometimes, you're caught in that transition even if your performance is fine.
Here's the thing. When the job stops, your monthly income stops too. But rent, loans, and bills don't.
This is why the government, through the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), wants to make sure workers have protection when they lose their jobs
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong recently tabled the new amendments to the Employment Insurance System (EIS) Act 2025, marking a major step to strengthen Malaysia's social protection system, especially for workers who lose their jobs.
If it's your first time hearing of EIS, it is a form of monthly financial support to help Malaysians who are laid off.
It also pays for retraining so you can upskill and get back into the job market.
While no one plans to lose their job, thousands of Malaysians go through it every year.
Since 2018, more than 363,000 workers have received EIS benefits, with payouts totalling more than RM900 million. For many Malaysians, this became the bridge that helped them pay rent, buy groceries, and keep going while searching for a new job.
EIS isn't just cash aid. It gives workers a second chance to get back on track.
With the EIS Act 2025 amendments, PERKESO is increasing and expanding benefits. Key upgrades include:
The Job Search Allowance (JSA) which offers up to six months of financial support stays the same. However, those who secure a new job will now receive 50% of their remaining JSA, which incentivises jobseekers to find a role sooner rather than later.
- Daily training allowance: RM30 (up from RM20)
- Maximum training fee: RM7,000 (up from RM4,000)
- Mobility Assistance Allowance: RM1,000 (one-off) for workers who need to relocate more than 100km for their new job
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The Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) says this amendment reflects the government's ongoing commitment to build a social protection system that is more inclusive, sustainable and resilient, so workers aren't left alone when jobs disappear, and can return to the labour market faster and stronger.
This additional support was introduced in Parliament after Human Resources Minister Steven Sim tabled a law amendment last week to extend PERKESO coverage to 24/7
LINDUNG 24/7 is a scheme that protects workers even outside working hours.
The two reforms have different scopes, but share the same spirit, making sure workers are protected at all times, no matter what happens.
For more #lifestyle stories:
- M'sian Degree Holder Frustrated With RM1,700 Salary Despite 6-Day Work Week In Kelantan
- Man Spends 10 Hours A Day Commuting From Perlis To KL On EX5 Motorbike To Work In The City
- How Does Withdrawing RM1,000 From Your EPF Today Affect Retirement? We Did The Math
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