KUALA LUMPUR: Part-time journalists or stringers working with any media organisation are entitled to protection and benefits under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS).
The Social Security Organisation (Socso) said part-time journalists or stringers engaged via a “Contract for Service” are eligible for such protection based on the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 (Act 789).
However, they must make voluntary contributions for the scheme.
“SKSPS provides protection for self-employed insured persons against employment injuries, including occupational diseases and accidents during work-related activities and while travelling for self-employment,” Socso said.
“This scheme offers benefits such as medical, temporary disability, permanent disability, constant attendance allowance, rehabilitation facilities, education, dependents’ and funeral benefits,” Socso added in a statement Monday (July 17).
Socso outlined four contribution plans available for self-employed individuals with payments starting from RM157.20 per year or RM13.10 per month.
Part-time journalists under a contract for service are also eligible for the SPS matching contribution under the SPS Usahawanita 2.0 category, specifically for part-time female journalists.
“The government funds 80% of the SKSPS contribution payment for Plan 2, amounting to RM186.20, while self-employed individuals only need to pay the remaining 20% or RM46.60 for a 12-month coverage,” Socso explained.
“Socso is committed to protecting eligible media practitioners as they play an important role in promoting the social security protection agenda,” Socso stated.
This move is in response to Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzi’s call to protect the well-being of stringers in the media industry.
Yesterday, Fahmi stated that he would discuss with Socso to ensure the welfare of the group is always protected during his visit to part-time journalist Ng Kan Seng in Kampar, Perak.
Ng, a 68-year-old former employee of Nanyang Siang Pau, Kwong Wah Yit Poh, China Press, and Sin Chew Daily, is now frail and has to take care of an older brother with special needs. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
