KUALA LUMPUR – The government will expand Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) protection to Malaysian citizens working abroad, beginning with Malaysia–Singapore cross-border workers.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 will be amended to facilitate the extension of this protection.
He noted that the programme is expected to benefit approximately 480,000 workers.
“Our children who work abroad, waking up at 4am to work in Singapore — how do we extend Perkeso protection to them? They currently do not have such facilities,” he said.
He also highlighted safety concerns, revealing that, on average, one Malaysian cross-border worker loses their life every week or about 54 deaths annually. Meanwhile, Anwar called on employers to be more caring and compassionate in ensuring that the welfare of workers continues to be protected.
“This country must be peaceful; this country must develop and progress… but we must also ensure that the fate of workers is safeguarded. That is paramount.
“We list how many large companies there are in our country making profits of one billion, two billion, yet even raising workers’ salaries by RM40 is difficult—how then are we to uplift workers?” he said.
He therefore urged all company leaders to reflect and reassess how they treat their employees.
“I am not proposing rewards that would cause companies to suffer losses. I have never suggested that. I am not suggesting that we lose competitiveness… I am only proposing that national and corporate leaders be more caring and show compassion,” he added.
In his speech, Anwar also touched on the global economic crisis, noting that conditions will be more challenging this month compared to three months ago.
“At the end of February, crude oil prices were at US$70 (RM278) per barrel… today they have surged to US$115 (RM464.60) per barrel. This increase is too steep, meaning the impact of economic uncertainty is being felt worldwide.
“There are shortages of materials for those working on plantations, such as a short-term shortage of phosphates, in addition to rising diesel prices. Those working in factories, driving lorries… everyone is affected,” he said.
Despite this, he said Malaysia is still maintaining the subsidised price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre, even though many other oil-producing countries have raised prices.
“That is why I ask workers to understand why I insist on maintaining the fuel price at RM1.99 per litre.
“There is pressure from economists and corporate groups, all suggesting that I be more ‘realistic.’ So yes, I am being realistic, taking care of the national economy and the people but I also reflect on the fate of workers, especially those at the lower levels,” he said. — May 1, 2026