Effective 1 June 2026, PERKESO introduced the Skim Kemalangan Bukan Bencana Kerja (SKBBK), also known as LINDUNG 24 JAM. The scheme extends social security protection by providing employees with coverage for accidents that occur outside the course of employment.
Recently, the Government announced an important update to the implementation of the scheme following feedback from employers and employees.
Before we look at the latest changes, let’s first understand what SKBBK is and how it works.
What is SKBBK (LINDUNG 24 JAM)?
Previously, PERKESO’s Employment Injury Scheme only covered accidents that occurred while an employee was carrying out their work duties or travelling to and from work.
SKBBK expands this protection by covering non-work-related accidents, giving eligible employees access to benefits even when accidents happen during their personal time.
In short, it provides employees with 24-hour accident protection, not just protection during working hours.
Who Is Covered?
SKBBK generally applies to employees covered under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4).
This includes:
- Malaysian employees
- Foreign employees
- Employees of any age, as long as they remain employed
- Existing employees who are eligible under PERKESO
What Is Covered?
The scheme covers accidental injuries that occur outside work.
Examples include accidents that happen:
- At home
- During personal travel
- While jogging, cycling or participating in recreational activities
- During holidays or other personal activities
The accident does not have to be related to employment for the employee to receive protection.
What Is NOT Covered?
Although SKBBK offers broader protection, it does not cover every situation.
The scheme does not cover:
- Work-related accidents (these continue to be covered under the Employment Injury Scheme)
- Certain personal accidents occurring outside Malaysia
- Self-employed individuals covered under Act 789
- Domestic housewives covered under their own protection scheme
- Illnesses or diseases such as diabetes, fever, high blood pressure or other medical conditions
It is important to remember that SKBBK is an accident protection scheme, not a medical insurance plan.
What Benefits Are Available?
Eligible employees may receive various PERKESO benefits, including:
- Medical Benefit
- Temporary Disablement Benefit
- Permanent Disablement Benefit
- Dependants’ Benefit
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Funeral Benefit
- Physical and vocational rehabilitation
- Return-to-Work Programme
- Education Benefit
The actual benefits depend on the nature and severity of the accident.
Who Pays the Contribution?
Under SKBBK, the contribution is fully borne by the employer.
Employees are not required to contribute.
The contribution is calculated based on PERKESO’s prescribed contribution rates and the applicable monthly wage ceiling.
Latest Update: What Has Changed?
When SKBBK was first introduced on 1 June 2026, participation was intended to apply to employees covered under the Employees’ Social Security Act.
Following feedback from employers, employees and industry stakeholders, the Government has revised the implementation.
Malaysian Employees
Participation is now voluntary.
Eligible Malaysian employees who do not wish to participate may opt out by following PERKESO’s prescribed procedures within the stipulated timeline.
Foreign Employees
For foreign employees, participation remains mandatory.
Employers are still required to comply with PERKESO’s contribution requirements for eligible foreign workers.
What Should Employers Do?
With the latest changes, employers should review their payroll and HR processes to ensure compliance.
This includes:
✅ Understanding which employees are eligible to opt out.
✅ Continuing to contribute for employees who remain covered.
✅ Ensuring foreign employees continue to be enrolled where required.
✅ Keeping proper records of employee participation or opt-out declarations.
Final Thoughts
LINDUNG 24 JAM represents an important enhancement to Malaysia’s social security system by extending protection beyond the workplace. While the scheme provides valuable benefits for employees who suffer non-work-related accidents, employers should also take note of the latest implementation changes.
As participation is now voluntary for eligible Malaysian employees but remains mandatory for foreign employees, businesses should review their PERKESO processes and stay updated with the latest guidelines to ensure continued compliance.
