Got Bitten By Your Own Cat? M’sians May Be Eligible For SOCSO Claims Covering Medical Bills & Paid Medical Leave

Did you know that everyday domestic injuries, including something as unexpected as being bitten by your own pet cat, can actually be covered by Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) too?

According to Berita Harian,  SOCSO confirmed that claims for finger injuries caused by pet cat bites have successfully been approved under their LINDUNG 24 Jam scheme, covering both medical treatment and paid medical leave (MC).

Coverage goes beyond the workplace, including cat bites

Elaborating on the scope of the initiative, SOCSO Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Operations), Azirruan Arifin, explained that LINDUNG 24 Jam protection is never determined by how big or small an accident is.

He explained that whether it is a minor domestic mishap like a pet cat bite, a child accidentally poking a contributor’s eye, or falling off a ladder while doing home repairs on a day off, these incidents qualify as long as they meet the definition of a covered accident.

“As long as the incident meets the coverage conditions, receives medical certification, and affects the contributor’s ability to work, a claim can be submitted for SOCSO’s evaluation,” Azirruan shared.

Other approved non-work-related claims under the 24/7 scheme include weekend sports injuries, recreational activities, and domestic travel accidents.

Over RM9.9 Million paid out under LINDUNG 24 Jam

Enforced since 1 June, the LINDUNG 24 Jam scheme protects employees around the clock against non-work-related accidents outside of official working hours. As of 31 August, SOCSO recorded 6,330 claims under this scheme, with total benefit payouts reaching RM9.97 million.

Contributions are voluntary for local workers and mandatory for foreign workers. However, SOCSO noted that injuries resulting from intentional acts, criminal behavior, law violations, or pre-existing medical conditions and illnesses remain excluded.

So, if your furry little feline friend ever gets a bit too playful and leaves you needing medical leave, remember that your SOCSO safety net just might have you covered!

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments!

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