The government has agreed in principle to introduce a Post-Maternity Leave Allowance (EPCB) under the Employment Insurance System Act.
This new initiative is expected to provide financial relief to more than 132,000 female workers across the country.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the allowance is designed to offer financial assistance for up to 30 days of additional leave.
This benefit can be utilised after the completion of the mandatory 98-day maternity leave period.
During his speech at the National Labour Day celebration, the Prime Minister highlighted the challenges of child-rearing and noted that the move reflects the government’s commitment to recognising the essential role mothers play in the nation.
Implementation of the allowance will require specific amendments to the Employment Insurance System Act.
Protection for cross-border workers
In a separate move to strengthen the national social security framework, the government will amend the Self-Employment Social Security Act to cover Malaysians working abroad.
This initiative will initially focus on those who commute daily between Malaysia and Singapore.
The Prime Minister revealed that an average of one Malaysian life is lost every week among cross-border workers, totalling approximately 54 deaths annually.
By amending the act, the government aims to ensure these individuals are no longer excluded from essential protection.
This legal amendment is anticipated to benefit over 480,000 workers. While the rollout begins with those working in Singapore, the government intends to eventually expand the scope to include other groups of Malaysians employed in foreign countries.
Broader social safety net
Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan had previously indicated in March that the ministry would propose a Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) scheme specifically for the 400,000 Malaysians travelling to Singapore for work.
Known as the Skim Kembara initiative, this effort is part of a wider strategy to enhance social protection for the Malaysian workforce, regardless of where they are employed.
The Prime Minister emphasised that these progressive steps are aimed at ensuring justice, safety, and financial stability for the people, reinforcing the government’s role in safeguarding the welfare of all citizens.
