Mumtaz Nawi (PN-Tumpat) said such caregivers were currently entitled to an allowance of up to RM500 per month under Socso’s Elaun Layanan Sentiasa scheme.

“These family members are not entitled to contributions as employees because the care work they do is considered ‘domestic’ work. I believe it’s time we change that,” she told the Dewan Rakyat in debating the 2024 Employment Insurance System (Amendment) Bill.

She said caregivers from the private sector could be paid on average up to RM160 per day for their services.

“Yet, family members receive only RM500 per month for the same work.

“I think the government needs to amend this law to include family caregivers, whether they are siblings, spouses, or children taking care of their sick family members.

“They should be given recognition for the work that they do, be paid by Socso, and covered by the insurance system,” Mumtaz said, adding that this was crucial for the country’s welfare and the well-being of families.