Malaysia Eyes Maternity Leave Allowance Under SOCSO Scheme, Says Ramanan
KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian government is evaluating a proposal to introduce a maternity leave allowance aimed at strengthening social protection for working women across the country.
Human Resources Minister Ramanan Ramakrishnan said the initiative, to be implemented through Social Security Organisation, is expected to benefit more than 100,000 mothers nationwide.
He emphasised that the proposal reflects the government’s recognition of women as key drivers of economic growth and national development.
“Women are not only contributors but central pillars of the economy. Strengthening their welfare is essential to ensuring a resilient workforce,” he said during a ministry engagement programme.
Enhancing Worker Welfare and Social Protection
Ramanan noted that the proposed allowance would provide crucial financial support during maternity leave, helping women manage the transition period following childbirth.
He added that the ministry is actively developing additional measures to improve worker welfare, which will be introduced progressively as part of a broader reform agenda.
The engagement session, attended by hundreds of participants, served as a platform to strengthen collaboration between the government, employers and employees in building a more inclusive labour ecosystem.
SOCSO Rehabilitation Centre to Boost Recovery Services
In a related development, Ramanan also had an audience with Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin to present updates on the progress of the SOCSO Rehabilitation Centre in Terengganu.
The facility is expected to play a vital role in enhancing Malaysia’s social security framework by providing comprehensive rehabilitation services for contributors who have suffered injuries or disabilities.
It will also focus on improving employability through integrated recovery programmes that combine physical rehabilitation with vocational support.
Commitment to Effective Implementation
Ramanan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that the project is completed as planned and delivers meaningful benefits to workers in need of support.
He said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to expand access to quality healthcare services and strengthen social protection systems nationwide.
With these measures, Malaysia aims to build a more robust and inclusive social safety net while supporting the long-term well-being of its workforce.
-wilayah.com.my
