Online Applications for Perkeso Benefits Begin in January
Malaysia’s Social Security Organization (PERKESO) is expanding its digital services, allowing online applications for a wide range of social security benefits beginning in January. The move is part of a broader digitalisation initiative aimed at improving accessibility, reducing processing times, and delivering faster support to workers and self-employed individuals alike.
What Benefits Are Included?
The online platform will cover benefits under several key acts:
- Employees’ Social Security Act 1969
- Self-Employed Social Security Act 2017
- Employment Insurance System Act 2017
- Housewives’ Social Security Act 2022
By integrating these provisions into a single digital channel, PERKESO aims to simplify the application process for a diverse group of contributors—from formal employees to gig workers and homemakers who contribute to social protection schemes in Malaysia.
Why Digitalisation Matters
The shift to online applications is designed to reduce the need for physical visits to offices and to streamline communications between claimants and PERKESO staff. Key expected benefits include:
- Faster submission and tracking of applications
- Clear, step-by-step guidance for eligibility and required documentation
- Better transparency on claim status and timelines
- Improved accessibility for rural and remote applicants
For applicants, the online portal also provides status updates, reminders for missing documents, and an audit trail that helps prevent miscommunication or delays. PERKESO emphasizes that the digital process is designed to be user-friendly, with support resources and help desks available if needed.
Who Should Use the Online System?
The online system is intended for:
- Wage earners covered under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969
- Self-employed individuals who contribute under the Self-Employed Social Security Act 2017
- Participants in the Employment Insurance System as defined by the 2017 Act
- Eligible homemakers under the Housewives’ Social Security Act 2022
Applicants should review eligibility criteria carefully, gather relevant documents (such as identification, proof of income, contribution records, and any medical or incident-related documents), and then submit through the official PERKESO portal.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Online Experience
To maximise success and minimise delays:
- Create an account on the PERKESO online portal before you start an application
- Prepare digital copies of all required documents in the specified formats
- Double-check personal details for accuracy to avoid verification holds
- Monitor your application status via the portal and respond promptly to any requests
Perkeso also notes that technical issues, if any, should be reported through official channels, and that customer support channels will be expanded as the system goes live.
A Look Ahead
As digitalisation takes hold, applicants can expect more services to migrate online, with PERKESO likely to roll out additional features such as online determinations, digital payments, and enhanced claim-tracking dashboards. The ultimate goal remains clear: provide timely, reliable social protection to workers and contributors across Malaysia, regardless of their employment type.
Conclusion
The January launch of online applications marks a significant milestone for PERKESO’s mission to broaden access to social security benefits. By including the four major Acts under one digital umbrella, the platform promises a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive experience for workers, self-employed individuals, and homemakers alike.
