KUALA LUMPUR — The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) is intensifying efforts to strengthen the nation’s human capital through the implementation of various new initiatives aimed at enhancing workforce competitiveness and ensuring more comprehensive social protection.
Its Minister, Steven Sim Chee Keong, said the initiatives align with the ministry’s goal of developing high-quality human capital capable of supporting the country’s sustainable economic development.
He said this while attending the ministry’s Monthly Assembly and Iftar Ceremony with KESUMA staff, which was also attended by Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan and the ministry’s top management.
According to him, among the key initiatives entering the final phase of implementation is the cross-border workers scheme under the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), which is expected to benefit more than 400,000 Malaysians who commute to work in neighbouring countries by providing more comprehensive social security protection.
In addition, the Gig Workers Act, expected to come into force at the end of this month, will benefit about 1.2 million gig workers through improved welfare protection and social rights comparable to those enjoyed by workers in the formal sector.
At the same time, KESUMA has also outlined the direction for the implementation of the 2026 High Impact Programme, identifying eight major initiatives under the KESUMA 2026 Acceleration Programme to expedite the delivery of benefits to the people.
Steven Sim Chee Keong said the ministry remains committed to ensuring that every policy, programme and initiative implemented will add value to the people and support the country’s inclusive economic development.
— FB RAMANAN RAMAKRISHNAN
