The tides have turned in Malaysia’s social security world. In response to a lot of feedback from the public, the Cabinet in Malaysia has changed its initial position on the new Social Security Organisation (SOCSO / PERKESO) initiative. After being a required payroll deduction in the past, the program is now 100% optional for local citizens as confirmed by the government.
If you wish to retain your take-home pay then it is crucial to understand how to avoid the protocol of a non-workplace accident scheme. This step-by-step guide takes you through the new framework, the payroll impact, and precisely what Malaysian workers have to do to deal with their contributions.
What is the PERKESO Lindung 24 Jam Scheme?
The Lindung 24 Jam scheme (Skim Kemalangan Bukan Bencana Kerja) was implemented on June 1, 2026, as a program that offers workers 24/7 protection from accidents when they are not working. This program is different from the regular SOCSO scheme, which only protects injuries suffered in the workplace and on the way to and from work, and extends to personal situations including a slip at home, sporting injuries or natural catastrophes.
The funding mechanism needed to be completely reshaped, however, and would have to be a new type of salary deduction beginning from 0.75% of the salary. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan announced that they will have the option to participate based on their individual financial needs after a Cabinet meeting.
How to Opt Out of Non-Workplace Accident Scheme: Step-by-Step Guide
The government changed the Lindung 24 Jam scheme from compulsory to voluntary so you will not have to deal with a labyrinth of legal jargon to safeguard your salary against automatic deductions. Follow these steps to do so successfully and/or to make sure that your payroll is adjusted properly.
1.Verify Your Eligibility and Status:Check Your Nationality.
Verify contribution profile. The voluntary opt-out option is only for Malaysian citizens and Permanent Residents (PR). Existing legal provisions still require participation for all expatriates and foreign workers.
2.Submit an Explicit Written Request to Your HR Department:Internal Corporate Notification.
Don’t assume that your employer will automatically terminate the deduction. Write a formal letter or email letter to your Human Resources or Payroll manager requesting that you be allowed to not participate in the non-workplace accident scheme through the voluntary provision.
3.Monitor Your Monthly Salary Payslip:Payroll Verification.
Check your pay slip monthly after you have submitted. Refer to the statutory deductions section. You should no longer see the 0.75% deduction for the scheme as this is no longer applicable, and your net take home pay should remain unaffected.
The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) official updates indicate that PERKESO is gradually finalizing the formal administrative system back end and the online declaration forms of the local workers. As these digitally run registration sites become active, maintain close contact with your corporate HR team.
Stay Ahead With Malaysia’s Latest Updates
Why Are EV Prices Changing?
Find out how the new import rules affect vehicle costs.
Want Free ATM Cash Withdrawals?
Check out how to avoid interbank withdrawal fees.
Need EPF Money Fast Today?
See the quickest steps to access emergency funds.
Can You Taxi Into Singapore?
Browse the legal process for cross-border taxi travel.
Who Qualifies For RM4,000 Wages?
Explore the eligibility rules for Johor’s premium wage scheme.
Impact of the Scheme on Your Monthly Salary
If you choose to participate, the contribution is borne entirely by the employee. Employers are not required to match this specific rate.
| Monthly Salary Band | Initial Contribution Rate (2026–2027) | Expected Take-Home Pay Impact |
| RM 3,000 | 0.75% | Deducts RM 22.15 per month |
| RM 4,500 | 0.75% | Deducts RM 33.25 per month |
| RM 6,000 (Maximum Ceiling) | 0.75% | Deducts RM 45.00 per month |
Opting out preserves these amounts on your monthly paycheck, allowing you to allocate those funds toward private personal accident policies or general savings instead.
FAQs
Does opting out of Lindung 24 Jam affect my regular SOCSO protection?
No. Deciding how to opt out of non-workplace accident scheme options does not affect your standard employment protections. Your traditional SOCSO Employment Injury Scheme and Invalidity Scheme remain fully active and mandatory.
Can I choose to opt back into the scheme later?
Yes. The scheme functions as a voluntary safety net. If your personal insurance coverage changes in the future, you can coordinate with your employer to opt back into the system and resume the monthly 0.75% deduction.
Is the opt-out option available to foreign workers in Malaysia?
No. The official press statement via the Philippine News Agency network and Malaysian state media emphasizes that the Lindung 24 Jam scheme remains 100% compulsory for foreign workers to safeguard their welfare while employed overseas.
