PUTRAJAYA, 31 March — Malaysia today takes a major step in shaping its gig economy as the Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872) comes into effect, strengthening governance and welfare protections for workers in the gig sector.
The Minister of Human Resources said the new legislation reflects the government’s commitment to building a future workforce ecosystem that is fairer, more inclusive, and resilient, in line with the rapid growth of the gig economy, said in a statement.
The Act is expected to benefit over 1.64 million gig workers by providing a comprehensive legal framework.
Key areas of focus include transparency in service agreements, payment certainty, protection against discrimination, and access to structured dispute resolution mechanisms.
Social security coverage through PERKESO as well as occupational safety and health protections are also strengthened, without compromising the flexibility that underpins the gig employment model.
Malaysia now holds a strategic position as one of the first countries in the region to introduce dedicated legislation for the gig sector, potentially serving as a model for regional and global policy development.
Under the Act, the definition of gig workers is inclusive, covering individuals providing services both via digital platforms and independently, spanning creative, professional, and freelance sectors.
To reinforce governance, the Gig Consultation Council (MPGiG) has been established as a tripartite advisory body representing the government, gig workers, and contracting entities.
The council will advise the government on minimum income levels and industry standards based on data and current market needs.
A total of 26 members have been appointed to MPGiG, effective 1 April 2026, with the first meeting scheduled for 3 April 2026. Discussions will focus on gig workers’ income levels as a key early implementation agenda.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM) will act as a central coordinating body to ensure policies, industry monitoring, and ecosystem development are implemented in a structured and effective manner.
The Act also introduces a more systematic complaints management system through the eAduan platform under the Ministry of Human Resources, allowing gig workers to file complaints related to payments, account suspension, or breaches of agreements, with a resolution target of within 21 working days, depending on the case complexity.
Enforcement will be carried out collaboratively by agencies including the Department of Labour, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, and PERKESO, with strict action against parties failing to comply with legal provisions.
This initiative demonstrates the government’s balanced approach to fostering digital economy growth while prioritizing workers’ welfare. More information on the Gig Workers Act 2025 is available on the Ministry of Human Resources official website at https://www.mohr.gov.my/aktapekerjagig2025/.
–Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris
![KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — Malaysia has entered a new era in labour protection with the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025 [Act 872], marking a major milestone in safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers in the rapidly expanding digital economy. The landmark legislation, which officially comes into force today, reflects the strong commitment of the MADANI Government under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to ensure that economic progress goes hand in hand with social justice. Described as a bold and comprehensive move, the Act provides long-awaited legal recognition and protection for gig workers, a sector that has grown significantly in recent years due to technological advancements and shifting employment trends. With an estimated 1.64 million gig workers in Malaysia set to benefit, the law introduces key safeguards including basic workers’ rights, improved transparency in contractual agreements, clearer dispute resolution mechanisms, and stronger social security protections. Officials подчеркнули that Malaysia’s approach places it ahead of regional peers such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Philippines, where gig worker protections are still being introduced gradually or remain limited to specific sectors. In contrast, Malaysia’s dedicated legal framework positions the country among Asia’s leaders in addressing the challenges of the gig economy. The Ministry of Human Resources, Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia, played a central role in developing the Act, working closely with a wide range of stakeholders including gig worker associations, trade unions, academics, and media representatives. “This is not just about economic growth, but about fairness and inclusion,” the government said, emphasizing that the goal is to build a digital economy that is not only innovative and fast-growing, but also equitable and sustainable. The introduction of Act 872 is seen as a defining step in positioning Malaysia not merely as a participant in the regional gig economy, but as a model nation demonstrating that technological advancement and social protection can progress together. The government expressed appreciation to all parties involved in shaping the legislation, noting that the achievement reflects a collective national effort to secure a more just and resilient future of work.](https://minutesmy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/657983552_122263032920166941_1934844252325807125_n-1024x683.jpg)
