864 high-profile individuals, including VVIPs and MPs, in Socso arrears for domestic workers

KUALA LUMPUR — The Ministry of Human Resources has revealed a significant compliance issue among Malaysia's elite, with 864 high-profile individuals failing to meet their statutory obligations to pay Socso contributions for domestic workers employed in their households.

The defaulters include prominent figures from various sectors, among them VVIPs, Members of Parliament, and state assemblymen. The disclosure underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring consistent adherence to social security requirements across all employment categories, regardless of the employer's status or standing.

Socso contributions are mandatory for all domestic workers employed in Malaysian households. The scheme provides workers with essential social protection and benefits in the event of work-related injuries, disabilities, or other contingencies. Non-compliance exposes workers to financial vulnerability while constituting a breach of employer responsibilities.

The Ministry's identification of these cases suggests increased enforcement efforts to ensure comprehensive coverage under Malaysia's social security framework. The findings highlight the need for greater awareness and accountability among employers from all backgrounds regarding their legal obligations to domestic workers.

Authorities have not yet disclosed specific enforcement actions or timelines for rectification of the arrears identified in the audit.