Socso will not be extended to cover over 60s

KUALA LUMPUR: The social security coverage will not be extended to workers aged above 60 as it would bring financial implications to the government.
Stating this, Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Muttalib said that the government does not intend to extend the current age limit of 60 for coverage.
He said this is in line with the amendments to the Employee's Social Security Act in 2012, which has raised the qualifying age for Invalidity Scheme claims from 55years to 60years.
"We do not intend to increase the age limit beyond 60 because if we do then there will implications on many aspects in terms of law and finance.
"The government through the Social Security Organisation (Socso) is trying to reduce the accident rates at workplace and when travelling for work so that the Socso benefits can be channelled to other interests like education and welfare," Ismail said.
However he said the government will consider the matter and study in detail.
He was responding to Datuk Normala Abdul Samad (BN-Pasir Gudang), who asked whether the government intends to change the age requirement to make Socso claims from 60 to no age limit since there are many workers aged above 60.
Ismail said those above 60 who are still working can only make claims from Invalidity Scheme which covers medical, temporary and permanent disabilities, funeral, education, training and vocational programme as well as return-to-work programme.