Jobseekers and contributors across Malaysia securing new employment opportunities far from home can soon benefit from improved financial safety nets.
According to Harian Metro, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R Ramanan announced that SOCSO contributors who secure new jobs more than 100km from their homes will receive a one-off RM1,000 Mobility Assistance Allowance (EBM) from October 1.
He said the initiative is part of broader amendments to the Employment Insurance System (EIS) Act 2017 (Act 800).
Key upgrades under Act 800 amendments
Aside from chewing through relocation costs, the legislative updates bring substantial improvements designed to cushion displaced or transitioning workers:
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Early Re-employment Allowance (EBSA): Increased significantly from 25 percent to 50 percent.
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Training allowances: Daily training stipends are raised from RM10 to RM30 per day.
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Training fee caps: Maximum training fees are expanded from RM4,000 up to RM7,000.
Datuk Seri R Ramanan also emphasized that the enhancements are structured to give workers a stronger competitive edge in a fast-evolving job market.
Highlighting the impact of these provisions, he stated:
“This means contributors get better support to undergo training, upskill, and adapt to current job market requirements.”
He further elaborated on the extent of the safety net provided by the ministry, explaining that cumulative assistance can scale up depending on individual situations.
Detailing the maximum financial coverage, the Minister noted:
“However, it is subject to eligibility and the benefits received under the Employment Insurance System (EIS) protection for a contributor, up to RM25,000.”
Employer and union backing for the initiative
The initiative has drawn strong praise from industry stakeholders, including the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) and labour unions, who view the allowance as a crucial step in boosting labor market efficiency.
According to Harian Metro, Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) Senior Advisor for Government, Media, and International Relations Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman welcomed the move, noting that geographical relocation often incurs real initial costs for workers accepting new roles.
“Job opportunities do not necessarily exist within a worker’s commuting distance. This allowance recognizes that moving and traveling further may involve actual initial costs for workers who are willing to accept new jobs,” he explained, adding that it helps employers fill vacant positions across different regions more efficiently.
Echoing similar sentiments, Malaysian Trades Union Congress (UNI-MLC) President Datuk Mohamed Shafie BP Mammal pointed out that the targeted support removes geographical barriers without straining employment relations, allowing companies to bridge critical talent gaps faster.
“When suitable workers are available but face barriers in terms of location and skills, targeted support can help overcome those barriers without compromising the employment relationship,” he stated.
Administrative support and public outreach
To ensure the program achieves its bright and intended goals, MEF has emphasized that PERKESO will maintain transparent and accessible application procedures so that workers can effortlessly claim their rightful benefits.
With supportive administrative counters and outreach channels ready to guide them, Malaysian workers can hopefully step forward into their new careers with absolute confidence and peace of mind.
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