Materia Medica Malaysiana

Chance for the disabled to work again

KUALA LUMPUR: Some 3,000 permanently disabled workers who suffer from back and cervical pain will get a chance to be rehabilitated and work again, said Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn.
They would get a chance to be rehabilitated through the Social Security Organisation (Socso) “Return to Work” rehabilitation programme, which was launched by Dr Fong yesterday.
Socso is partnering with DBC Back to Health (M) Sdn Bhd to provide the workers rehabilitation, which would be fully borne by Socso.
Dr Fong, said that of the over 9,000 permanently disabled workers, some 30% had back and cervical injuries.
“Most in this category get these injuries not just in factories but in offices (as well).
“The aim of the rehabilitation programme is to get workers to resume their work. The injured worker will also be given motivation and counselling to help them regain their confidence to work again,” he said yesterday.
He said employers should give the injured worker a chance to work again or, if this was not possible, reassign them to another position.
Socso chief executive officer Dr Soh Chee Seng said they had identified two situations in which cases may be referred to the centre for rehabilitation.
“Firstly, those who suffer from chronic cervical or back pain and have been recommended by the Medical Board to undergo rehabilitations.
“Secondly, insured persons who suffer from acute back pain and have been on medical leave (temporary disablement) for more than three months,” he said.
The workers could seek treatment at two DBC rehabilitation centres – one in Plaza Ampang, Jalan Tun Razak, for the Klang Valley and the other in 135 D&E, Jalan Datuk Lao Phak Khuan, Taman Ipoh, Perak.
Dr Fong said the pilot project might be expanded nationally if response was good.