The Interest on Late Payment of Contributions (ILPC) or Faedah Caruman Lewat Bayar (FCLB) has emerged as the main attraction at the iLINDUNGu Mega Festival in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, as employers take advantage of an 80 percent penalty reduction to settle outstanding Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) contributions.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong said the strong response reflects employers’ growing commitment to resolve overdue payments and ensure their workers remain protected under the LINDUNG Pekerja scheme.
The Penang edition follows a successful run in Shah Alam earlier this month, where 466 employers settled RM251,393.50 in arrears after receiving the FCLB discount.
“During the Shah Alam festival, 660 employers were eligible for ILCP. Their total penalties came to RM2.08 million, but after the 80 percent discount, the amount due was reduced to about RM416,000.
“This is a win-win initiative. Employers get relief to settle outstanding contributions, while workers’ social security protection is safeguarded,” said the Bukit Mertajam MP.
As of Saturday afternoon, 70 employers have come forward at the Penang festival to apply for ILCP, involving a total of RM205,185 in penalties. An 80 percent reduction amounting to RM164,000 was granted.
PERKESO previously noted that while ILCP is usually offered in April and sometimes extended into May, providing the discount during the festival shows its commitment to ensuring no worker is left unprotected.
Festival draws nearly 13,000 visitors in two days
Public turnout has been strong. Over the first two days – Friday and up till 2pm Saturday – the festival at Evoke Bukit Mertajam recorded 12,568 visitors.
PERKESO expects the final figure to climb significantly by Sunday night, driven by the mix of services, job opportunities, entertainment, and community activities.
Its Board Chairman Dato’ Sri Subahan Kamal and Group CEO Dato’ Sri Dr Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed were present during the minister’s visit.
2,000 job vacancies offered, hiring picks up
A major attraction is the LINDUNG Kerjaya MYFutureJobs Career Carnival, featuring 27 employers offering more than 2,000 job vacancies across sectors.
Early outcomes have been promising. A total of 157 jobseekers successfully secured employment, while 63 candidates were shortlisted for second-round interviews.
In addition to ILCP services and job matching, the festival offers contribution checks, advisory counters, health screenings, children’s activities, cultural performances, e-sports tournaments, and entertainment.
Performers including Hyper Act, XPDC, Ruffedge, Duo Elite, UNIC, and Apex Tajuddin have pulled large crowds, alongside celebrity appearances from Bell Ngasri, Baby Nassuhada, Ashraf Muslim, Kimberly Chuah, Sharifah Shahirah, Daniel Fong, and others.
Today marks the final day of the three-day iLINDUNGu Mega Festival in Penang, with all services and activities running from 10am to 10pm.
This Social Security series is in collaboration with PERKESO.
