{
  "id": 5076985,
  "title": "MTUC Sarawak sokong Skim Lindung 24 Jam",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/mtuc-sarawak-sokong-skim-lindung-24-jam-5076985",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-02T10:34:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/bahasa/tempatan/2026/09/02/mtuc-sarawak-sokong-skim-lindung-24-jam"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "MTUC Sarawak has endorsed the Perkeso 24 Hour Protective Scheme, stating that it aligns with the principles of the International Labour Organisation which recognises social protection as a basic worker's right. The scheme, proposed by MTUC Sarawak's Secretary-General Zaidi Nasar, aims to help workers and their families cope with financial risks resulting from accidents or disasters outside of working hours. The scheme's benefits include medical expenses, loss of income, and assistance for dependents, which could amount to tens of thousands of ringgit. Zaidi noted that such protection is crucial in mitigating financial burdens, particularly as living costs continue to rise. The MTUC president, Abdul Halim Mansor, had earlier endorsed the appointment of Deputy General Secretary Kamarul Baharin Mansor, who had suggested challenging the 24/7 Perkeso scheme. He expressed respect for the right of the union leader to voice his opinion and advocate for workers' interests, but disagreed with the picket approach. Instead, he suggested continuing dialogue with Perkeso and the government to address workers' concerns regarding the scheme. The scheme is fully funded by workers, unlike the traditional Perkeso model where a significant portion is covered by employers. The contribution starts at 0.75% of the monthly salary, increasing to 1% after three years and 1.25% from the sixth year. Employers will remit this amount along with regular contributions, enabling workers to receive protection without needing separate policies. Earlier today, Kamarul was reported to have said that the picket would be held at Perkeso offices nationwide to challenge the implementation of the 24/7 scheme and urge the organization to hold an immediate discussion with workers' representatives. He claimed that the contribution rate is too high and questioned the lack of consultation with the union on the issue.",
  "summary": "Pengerusinya Zaidi Nasar berkata skim itu penting bagi bantu pekerja dan keluarga hadapi risiko kewangan sekiranya berlaku kemalangan di luar waktu bekerja.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}