Socso and LZNK ink MoC to help asnaf group access social security benefits

ALOR SETAR - The Social Security Organisation (Socso) and Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah (LZNK) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) today in efforts to help the ‘asnaf’ group gain access to social security benefits.

Socso was represented by Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed, while Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Operations) Dr Mohd Faisal Mustaffa signed on behalf of LZNK.

Mohammed Azman said the programmes scheduled to be implemented involved data sharing and awareness of social security protection covered by all the existing Socso schemes.

The schemes extended to entrepreneurs in Kedah include the Self-Employed Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) and Housewife Social Security Scheme (SKSSR).

"Also included are labour market intervention with the Employment Insurance Scheme (SIP), awareness of zakat (tithe) payments by employers and employees, and related social security protection programmes which will be jointly offered in the future,” he told reporters after signing the MoC, here today.

Mohammed Azman said LZNK will be responsible for all aspects involving assessment, collection and distribution of zakat, as well as providing aid and protection, particularly to the ‘asnaf’ group, in Kedah.

He said the cooperation will provide a platform to help eight zakat recipient groups and simultaneously ensure equal well-being for all.

"...I also believe that in addition to helping the needy, this cooperation will indirectly upgrade the skills of personnel from the agencies involved. They will be trained to become social security practitioners,” he said. - BERNAMA