As Malaysia accelerates its shift toward a greener economy, ensuring that workers are not left behind is paramount. The Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), through its Employment Insurance System (EIS), is emerging as a vital player in supporting individuals through the evolving landscape of green employment.
By aligning social security with sustainable development, PERKESO is helping build a resilient workforce equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the low-carbon transition.
Supporting workers through economic shifts
The EIS acts as a crucial safety net for workers affected by employment disruptions due to the country’s environmental transition.
Whether through layoffs, restructuring, or the decline of carbon-intensive industries, EIS provides income replacement and job search assistance, helping individuals navigate career shifts during uncertain times.
This support is particularly critical as industries such as oil and gas, mining, and traditional manufacturing begin transforming under sustainability mandates.
By cushioning the impact of job losses and connecting workers to emerging sectors, EIS helps maintain economic stability while advancing national climate goals.
Reskilling for the green economy
Central to PERKESO’s approach is the emphasis on equipping workers with future-ready skills. Through EIS, the organisation facilitates retraining and upskilling initiatives aligned with high-growth green sectors, including renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, energy efficiency, and waste management.
These programmes ensure that displaced or at-risk workers are not only re-employed but also empowered to thrive in more sustainable roles. Investing in human capital in this way supports long-term economic resilience and allows Malaysia to develop a skilled workforce tailored to its green ambitions.
Job placement and career transition services
Beyond reskilling, EIS also plays a proactive role in connecting job seekers to meaningful employment in green industries. Through tailored career transition services, MYFutureJobs, Malaysia’s national employment portal managed by PERKESO, matches individuals with jobs in low-carbon sectors, helping them move from declining occupations to more sustainable career paths.
This job-matching service not only promotes employment stability but also encourages broader workforce participation in the green economy, creating a virtuous cycle of growth, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
Protecting vulnerable workers
The green transition can pose disproportionate risks to workers in carbon-intensive sectors. Recognising this, PERKESO extends targeted support to those in vulnerable industries, offering financial assistance, guidance, and reskilling options to help them adapt and succeed.
This ensures that the transition is inclusive and just - principles that underpin Malaysia’s broader sustainability agenda. By prioritising equity and worker protection, PERKESO helps prevent social dislocation while fostering a more balanced development path.
Leveraging green financing
Sustainable financing mechanisms, such as carbon pricing revenues and green investment funds, offer new avenues to bolster EIS programmes. Channelling these resources into social protection measures helps ensure that workers receive adequate support while enhancing national commitments to climate action.
By reinvesting in the workforce through green financing, Malaysia signals its intent to build a low-carbon economy that is fair, inclusive, and people-centred.
Raising awareness and building resilience
Finally, PERKESO plays an essential role in promoting awareness of green job opportunities and EIS benefits. Through outreach and engagement, the organisation encourages workers to proactively participate in upskilling programmes and career transition pathways.
This awareness-building effort fosters a culture of adaptability and lifelong learning - key traits for navigating the evolving world of work. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, PERKESO strengthens societal resilience in the face of economic and environmental transformation.
The World Security Forum 2025
Calling all International Social Security Association (ISSA) members! Learn more about how PERKESO is supporting Malaysians as the country transitions into a greener future at the World Social Security Forum 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. Here, you’ll also be able to connect with over 1,000 social security leaders and discover global innovations and best practices. Detailed information at https://www.issa.int/events/wssf2025.
This Social Security Series is a collaboration with PERKESO
