Two foreign workers suffered workplace accidents in Malaysia with vastly different outcomes under the government insurance system PERKESO. Jebaraj Kumar from India died after severe burns from a gas tank explosion at his restaurant job. His employer failed to report the incident properly to PERKESO. The hospital bills remained unpaid for two months while his body stayed in the morgue. His family received help only after an advocacy group intervened on their behalf.
Indonesian domestic worker Sri Handayani was struck by a car while crossing the street near her workplace. Her employer immediately assisted with medical forms and hospital visits. PERKESO covered all treatment costs and physiotherapy sessions without delay. She recovered completely and returned to work within weeks. The stark contrast highlights how employer cooperation determines whether the social security system functions effectively for vulnerable migrant workers.
Indonesian domestic worker Sri Handayani was struck by a car while crossing the street near her workplace. Her employer immediately assisted with medical forms and hospital visits. PERKESO covered all treatment costs and physiotherapy sessions without delay. She recovered completely and returned to work within weeks. The stark contrast highlights how employer cooperation determines whether the social security system functions effectively for vulnerable migrant workers.
