MEF: RM1,000 Perkeso mobility allowance to improve job matching for workers relocating over 100km

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 — The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has announced a RM1,000 Mobility Assistance Allowance for eligible Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) contributors who relocate over 100km from their homes. According to Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, this one-time allowance aims to facilitate better job matching for workers.

He explained that geographical mobility improvements will contribute to a more efficient labour market by enabling employers to match vacancies with suitable workers from farther locations. This is particularly beneficial in sectors and regions where employers have been struggling to find workers with the necessary skills and experience.

MEF urged the Perkeso to provide clear information on the eligibility criteria, application process, and payment timelines to workers and employers. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan recently confirmed the initiative, stating that the allowance will commence on Oct 1, following amendments to the Employment Insurance System (EIS) Act 2017.

This follows the rising demand for mobility assistance in job markets, as highlighted by the MEF. Additionally, the MEF highlighted further enhancements to the EIS, which include increasing the Early Re-employment Allowance from 25% to 50% of the remaining unpaid Job Search Allowance. They also raised the daily Training Allowance from RM10 to RM30 and expanded the maximum training fee from RM4,000 to RM7,000.

These measures will provide additional support for unemployed workers seeking to reskill and transition into new employment. Employers can benefit from employment services and worker-support programmes that reduce the time taken to fill vacancies and improve the matching of suitable candidates with available jobs.