How to Claim Medical Benefits If You Are a Freelancer

If you are a freelancer, e-hailing driver, or gig worker, you might be wondering how to secure your financial future against work-related risks. In Malaysia, PERKESO provides a dedicated social security scheme known as Lindung Kendiri to help self-employed individuals stay protected .

What is Lindung Kendiri?

Lindung Kendiri is the Social Security Scheme for Self-Employed Individuals, established under the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 . It is designed to extend social security coverage to those working in the informal sector and the gig economy . While the scheme was initially limited to the passenger transport sector in 2017, it has since expanded to cover 20 different sectors, including food delivery, online businesses, and professional services .

Who is eligible for coverage?

Eligibility is straightforward: you must be a Malaysian citizen or a permanent resident, with no age restrictions . You must also be actively self-employed to earn a living within one of the 20 covered sectors . To register, you will typically need your identity card and relevant supporting documents, such as a business permit, e-hailing profile, or a letter of verification from a professional association .

Benefits of the scheme

The scheme provides comprehensive protection for work-related accidents and occupational diseases . Benefits include medical treatment at panel clinics, temporary and permanent disablement benefits, and financial support for dependants in the event of a fatality . Additionally, insured individuals can access rehabilitation services and vocational training to help them return to work .

Mandatory contributions for gig workers

While most self-employed individuals contribute voluntarily, the landscape changed for platform-based workers on 31 March 2026 . Under the Gig Workers Act 2025, contributions for e-hailing and delivery riders are now mandatory at 1.25% of each completed task, which is automatically deducted by the platform .