Arnold Nathanael Lister, a 24-year-old baker from Penampang, Sabah, became one of the first beneficiaries of Perkeso's Non-Work-Related Accident Scheme (Lindung 24/7) after it came into effect on June 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3].
On June 6, Arnold suffered a serious spinal injury when he fell down a staircase at his home during renovation works. The accident caused a fractured and compressed spine, requiring urgent medical attention [1, 2, 3]. Despite occurring outside working hours, Arnold qualified for coverage under the new scheme as an active contributor, as Perkeso confirmed in its official statement [1, 2, 3].
Perkeso approved full funding for Arnold’s spinal implant surgery and treatment. They are also providing a Temporary Disablement Benefit to compensate for lost income while he is medically unfit to work [1, 2, 3]. Arnold is currently receiving treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kota Kinabalu [1, 2, 3].
The social insurance agency said Arnold is also being supplied with rehabilitation equipment, including a specialised wheelchair and a urinary drainage bag management device. He can receive free physiotherapy under Perkeso’s Return To Work (RTW) programme once he is ready, the agency added [1].
The Lindung 24/7 scheme aims to extend financial protection to workers injured outside the scope of employment. This includes domestic accidents and other non-work-related injuries that were previously not covered by Perkeso insurance [1, 2, 3]. Perkeso urged employers and workers to keep contributions up to date to secure continuous 24-hour coverage [1, 2, 3].
Arnold’s case is the first publicly announced beneficiary under the new scheme, marking a concrete example of its benefits. Perkeso announced the scheme took effect on June 1 and highlighted Arnold’s injury and support package on June 10, during which they detailed the coverage provided [1, 2, 3].
