Extension Of SKSPS, i-Saraan Reflects Govt's Commitment To Part-time Journalists' Welfare
KUALA LUMPUR, June 14 (Bernama) -- The extension of the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) under the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso), along with contributions to the i-Saraan scheme by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), for part-time media practitioners reflects the government's commitment to ensuring no group is left behind in accessing social protection.
Part-time Utusan Malaysia journalist Muhamad Iqbal Hamdan, who is also a committee member of the Penang Mutiara Media Club, said the initiative reflected the government's appreciation for the contributions of part-time journalists who were frequently exposed to risks while covering assignments.
'I hope these kinds of initiatives will carry on in the coming years so new part-time journalists can enjoy the same protection benefits,' he said when met by Bernama at the highlight of the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2025 celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) today.
Perak Media Practitioners Association (PPMP) chairman Sayed Hesham Syed Idris said the move gave part-time media practitioners the confidence and assurance to carry out their duties in the field.
'PPMP views the extension as demonstrating the government's concern in looking after the welfare of part-time journalists, given that many of them are not permanent employees and have no retirement savings.
'This initiative shows that the government is listening to the voices of the media, especially part-time journalists who do not enjoy the same benefits as permanent staff,' he said, expressing hope that an insurance scheme would also be introduced for part-time journalists.
Kedah Elite Media Club (KMEK) president M. Hifzudin Ikhsan described the extension of Perkeso protection for another year as a meaningful initiative for the club's members.
'This contribution not only ensures the safety of our members who work on a part-time basis, but also upholds their right to proper protection,' he said.
Echoing the same sentiment, Terengganu Media Journalists' Club (KAWAT) president Ahmad Syafri Husnaini Mohamad said the extension indirectly helped ease the burden of part-time staff who did not have a fixed income.
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