Employees in Malaysia are covered under the Employment Injury Insurance Scheme (EIIS) administered by the Social Security Organization (SOCSO), also known as PERKESO. This scheme provides benefits for injuries that occur in the course of employment, including accidents during official business trips. Effective 1 June 2026, SOCSO coverage has been expanded through the Skim LINDUNG 24 Jam (SKBBK) scheme to also cover accidents occurring outside of working hours, including during personal activities.
Summary
Accidents during official duties abroad may be covered by PERKESO, subject to investigation and documentation.
SOCSO coverage is limited for non-Malaysian employees outside Malaysia.
Always report incidents promptly and keep detailed records of your trip and the accident.
From 1 June 2026, SOCSO coverage under the SKBBK scheme extends to 24-hour protection, including accidents outside of work. This new coverage is funded through a phased employee contribution (starting at 0.75%).
Coverage for Work-Related Accidents
Domestic Coverage:
All employees (including expatriates) must contribute to SOCSO under EIIS. However, benefits are only payable to Malaysian citizens and permanent residents for injuries sustained within Malaysia.Overseas Coverage:
PERKESO does provide coverage for accidents that occur during official duties abroad, such as business trips. The accident must be directly related to work obligations.SOCSO does not cover accidents that happen overseas for employees who are not Malaysian citizens or permanent residents. If employees are traveling internationally for work, its important to consider arranging separate travel or international work-accident insurance for full protection.
Key Conditions for Overseas Coverage
Nature of Accident: The incident must occur while performing duties that are part of the employee’s job responsibilities during the business trip.
Investigation: PERKESO will review the claim to confirm that the accident qualifies as a work-related incident.
Reporting Requirements
The accident must be reported to PERKESO within the stipulated timeframe.
Employers or employees should prepare and submit all required documentation:
Medical reports
Details of the business trip (e.g., itinerary, invitation letters)
Evidence linking the accident to work duties
New Coverage: Skim LINDUNG 24 Jam (SKBBK) – Effective 1 June 2026
As of 1 June 2026, SOCSO/PERKESO has introduced an expanded protection scheme called Skim LINDUNG 24 Jam (SKBBK). Under this scheme:
Coverage now extends beyond work hours to include accidents during personal activities, at home, or outside of work obligations.
This applies to all employees – Malaysian (under and over 60) and non-Malaysian.
The scheme is funded through a new employee contribution (not employer-funded), introduced in phases starting at 0.75% of monthly wages.
Please note: Employees will see a reduction in their net take-home pay starting from June 2026 as a result of this new contribution.