Maid SOCSO
in Malaysia

SOCSO for Maids in Malaysia

Employing a domestic helper in Malaysia comes with legal responsibilities, including compliance with social security requirements under SOCSO (PERKESO). This page provides a complete and accurate explanation of SOCSO obligations for employers of maids in Malaysia, covering eligibility, contributions, benefits, registration process and legal consequences for non-compliance.

What Is SOCSO (PERKESO) in Malaysia

SOCSO, officially known as the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), is a Malaysian statutory body established under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969. Since June 2021, domestic workers have been included under SOCSO protection to ensure financial support in cases of work-related injury, invalidity or death.

While SOCSO provides statutory social security coverage, employers must also ensure that mandatory maid insurance in Malaysia is in place, as private insurance and SOCSO serve different but complementary purposes in protecting both the employer and the domestic helper.

Is SOCSO Mandatory for Maids in Malaysia

Malaysian Employers

Malaysian citizens or permanent residents who employ domestic workers are required to register their maid with SOCSO and make monthly contributions. This applies regardless of whether the maid is local or foreign, as long as the employment relationship exists.

Expatriate Employers

Certain expatriate employers may be subject to different treatment depending on employment pass status and government exemptions. Expatriate employers are advised to verify their obligations directly with PERKESO or through authorised agencies to ensure compliance.

Employers should also be aware that SOCSO compliance may be reviewed during maid work permit renewal in Malaysia, particularly when employment history, insurance coverage and legal records are assessed by authorities.

SOCSO Schemes Applicable to Domestic Workers

Domestic workers are generally covered under the following SOCSO schemes:

Employment Injury Scheme

This scheme provides protection if the maid suffers an injury, accident, or occupational disease arising out of and in the course of employment. Coverage includes medical treatment, temporary disablement benefits and permanent disablement compensation.

Invalidity Scheme

The Invalidity Scheme provides financial support if the maid becomes permanently disabled or dies due to non-work-related causes. Dependants may also receive survivor benefits.

SOCSO Contribution Rates for Maids

SOCSO contributions are calculated based on the maid’s monthly salary and the applicable contribution table issued by PERKESO. Contributions are generally divided between employer and employee, depending on the scheme and worker category.

Contribution rates and tables are updated periodically and must be referenced directly from PERKESO’s official contribution schedule.

How to Register a Maid for SOCSO

Employers must complete the following steps:

  1. Register as an employer via the PERKESO ASSIST portal
  2. Submit domestic worker employment details
  3. Declare monthly wages accurately
  4. Pay monthly contributions before the due date

SOCSO payments can be made online through approved banking channels or payroll systems.

Penalties for Not Registering SOCSO

Failure to register a domestic worker or pay required contributions is an offence under Malaysian law. Employers may face:

  • Fines up to RM10,000
  • Imprisonment up to two years
  • Both fine and imprisonment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is SOCSO compulsory for maids in Malaysia?

Yes. SOCSO is compulsory for domestic workers employed by Malaysian employers. Registration and contribution are required under the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 to provide protection against injury and invalidity.

2. What benefits does SOCSO provide to maids?

SOCSO provides medical treatment, injury compensation, invalidity pensions, and death benefits to domestic workers who suffer work-related or qualifying non-work-related conditions.

3. How often must SOCSO contributions be paid?

SOCSO contributions must be paid monthly and submitted before the prescribed deadline using the PERKESO ASSIST portal or authorised payment channels.

4. Does private insurance replace SOCSO?

No. Private insurance does not replace SOCSO. SOCSO is a statutory requirement, while private insurance provides supplementary coverage.

5. What happens if SOCSO is not paid?

Employers may face fines, imprisonment, or both for failing to comply with SOCSO registration and contribution requirements.