New self employment social security scheme provides benefits to taxi drivers - SOSCO
The Self Employment Social Security Scheme provides cash benefits to taxi drivers and their dependants in the event of unexpected incidents. - Photo for illustration purpose
Taxi drivers across the country are urged to take up the Self Employment Social Security Scheme provided by the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO).
Its chief executive, Datuk Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said the scheme which would take effect on June 1 was open to taxi drivers registered with the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) or the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) in Sabah and Sarawak.
"The scheme is also available for Uber and Grab drivers or anyone who runs a taxi service," he said at a press conference on the new scheme, here, today.
Mohammed Azman said the scheme was drawn up following an announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in 2012, suggesting the SOCSO Protection Scheme to be extended to self-employed taxi drivers.
"When tabling Budget 2017 last October, the prime minister announced a special government grant of RM60 million to begin implementing the scheme.
"This scheme provides cash benefits to taxi drivers and their dependants in the event of unexpected incidents such as accidents as well as medical care, physical rehabilitation or vocational training," he said.
The other features of the scheme are medical benefits, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, dependants' benefit, funeral benefit, and education loans.
"Taxi drivers have to contribute 1.25 per cent of their monthly income which is insured with the contribution.
"The contribution shall be paid on a prepaid basis for a 12-month period of protection and it should be renewed thereafter. Thus, SOCSO has provided flexible contribution options to taxi drivers according to their capacity from RM157.20 to RM592.80 per annum," said Mohammed Azman.
He said under the Self Employment Social Security Bill 2017 passed by Parliament in April, taxi drivers and e-hailing service providers such as Uber and Grab were required to contribute 1.25 per cent of their monthly income.
He said registration could be done online through www.perkeso.gov.my or at any SOCSO branch office across the country.
The public may also call SOCSO at 1-300-22-800 for more information on the scheme.
-- BERNAMA
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