India's Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, engaged in bilateral talks with Malaysia's Human Resources Minister, Steven Sim Chee Keong, at the International Social Security Association World Social Security Forum, according to The Sun.
Dr. Mandaviya praised Malaysia for successfully hosting the forum and reaffirmed India’s willingness to support Malaysia’s labour market requirements with skilled and professional workers.
Both leaders emphasised the significance of the India-Malaysia partnership and highlighted strong prospects for cooperation in information technology, renewable energy and infrastructure.
India also reiterated its commitment to advancing the proposed Memorandum of Collaboration between the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and Malaysia’s Social Security Organisation (SOCSO).
Additionally, Dr. Mandaviya met with PERKESO CEO Datuk Seri Dr. Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed, showcasing India’s rapid expansion of social protection coverage.
India’s social protection coverage has grown from 19% in 2015 to over 64% in 2025, reaching 940m people.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted India’s digital-first initiatives, including platforms like e-Shram and the National Career Service, which the ISSA recognised as global best-practice models.