Some 300 taxi drivers in Perak are taking proactive steps by contributing to the Social Occupational Security Scheme under Socso (Social Security Organisation) or Perkeso.
Executive Councillor for Health, Public Transport, Non-Islamic Affairs, National Integration and New Village Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon said that the number was small compared to the 1900-odd taxi drivers currently registered in Perak.
“The scheme not only protects the drivers but their rented cars as well. It gives better assurance for their safety.
“Contributors will enjoy many benefits such as medical, disability, recovery and many more, including their dependents. Moreover, it’s being managed by Socso,” he said.
Mah presented a cheque for RM1500 to Mohamad Helmi Hashim, 46, at his residence in Taman Chemor Mesra on January 10. The amount will be paid monthly until he is fully recovered.
Mohamad Helmi suffered three broken ribs after the taxi he drove crashed into a barrier at the Jelapang Toll exit on the North South Expressway on December 9, 2017.
Mohamad, who is secretary of the Taxi Drivers’ Association Ipoh, began subscribing to the scheme on August 24 2017 after being certified as temporarily disabled person. He is receiving treatment at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh.
Meanwhile, Sosco’s Social Security Division Head, Ismail Abi Hashim, urged taxi drivers nationwide to contribute to the scheme.
“We’ll work with taxi drivers’ association in every state and the Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to ensure that every driver receives protection.
“In the past six months, only 2400 taxi drivers and e-hailing service handlers have registered compared to the 100,000 drivers listed by the commission,” he revealed.
As such, he encouraged all registered drivers to make their monthly contribution of RM157 so they and their families can enjoy the protection the scheme provides.
Luqman Hakim
