Workplace Health Promotion in Malaysia (WHP), an intervention program consisting of a personalized and organizational stress management program, is done to create a healthy workplace setting to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The idea was borne from the Vision Zero Webinar Series III: Workplace Health Promotion organized by the Social Security Organization (SOCSO) on 21 October 2021.
It encompasses various initiatives aimed at creating a healthier work environment and promoting healthy lifestyles among workers.
Let’s dive more into it.
The Importance of Workplace Health Promotion
1. Employee Well-Being and Productivity
One of the primary reasons for investing in workplace health promotion is to enhance employee well-being.
When employees are healthy and happy, they are more productive, engaged, and motivated to perform their best.
2. Cost Savings for Employers
Moreover, promoting health in the workplace can lead to significant cost savings for employers.
Equivalent to about 1% of Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product, The Ministry of Health (MOH) has recorded a total estimated loss of RM12.88 Billion caused by medical bills and time off work due to illnesses.
Given that NCDs can cause chronic morbid conditions in workers such as end-stage renal failure, cerebrovascular disease, and limb loss, SOCSO offers rehabilitation and dialysis services to encourage workers to return to work.
With medical help at the earlier stage of NCDs, it is believed to be able to save a lot of unpredictable costs employers have to pay and promote a productive labor supply.
Key Components of Workplace Health Promotion
1. Health Education and Awareness
Promoting health literacy among employees through workshops, seminars, and informational campaigns fosters a culture of informed decision-making regarding health matters.
2. Physical Activity Encouragement
Encouraging regular physical activity through fitness challenges, sports activities, and ergonomic workstations promotes overall fitness and reduces the risk of sedentary lifestyle-related health issues.
3. Nutritional Support
Providing access to healthy food options, nutrition counseling, and promoting mindful eating habits contribute to better dietary choices and improved overall health.
4. Mental Health Support
Offering resources such as counseling services, stress management workshops, and mindfulness sessions creates a supportive environment for employees to address mental health challenges.
5. Work-Life Balance Initiatives
Implementing flexible work arrangements, parental leave policies, and promoting time management strategies fosters a healthy balance between work and personal life, reducing stress and burnout.
Programme Available Under WHP
1. SOCSO’s Health Screening Programme (HSP 3.0)
Introduced by SOCSO in 2013, this programme offers free health screenings to workers for early detection of NCDs such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and the risk of heart disease.
This programme is a part of the Matching Grant allocation by the Government for 2023, starting from 16th May 2023.
Doesn’t matter whether you have undergone the programme more than once, you are still eligible to join once again.
This programme is eligible for:
- Malaysian
- Aged between 40 and 59 years old
- An active SOCSO contributor under the Invalidity Scheme (minimum of one (1) month of contribution in the current year)
- Has at least 12 months of total contributions under the Invalidity Scheme
To ensure the eligibility, employers will need to have their employees download the SEHATi mobile app via Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
We have outlined the guide on how to use this app. Click here to read the article.
Takeaways
Workplace health promotion is not just a trend; it’s a strategic imperative for organizations seeking to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
By investing in the health and wellness of their employees, companies in Malaysia can create a positive work culture, drive performance excellence, and achieve sustainable growth in the long run.
With the availability of various workplace health programmes in Malaysia, employers could ensure their worker’s safety and welfare in the workplace dealing with hazards.
Have your employee’s health checked at OHPlus Asia, a comprehensive occupational health platform designed to help employers in Malaysia.
Under HSP, you can choose one of OHPlus nearest branches to get your employee’s health screened.
Consisting of professional OH Doctors, OH Nurse, Ergonomic, Hygienist and Industrial Psychologist, your employees well-being will be taken care of.
Contact us now!
