HISTORICAL STEPS TO STRENGTHEN THE MALAYSIAN GIG EMPLOYEE ECOSYSTEM-YB R.RAMANAN

KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 — Deputy Minister R. Ramanan today announced the successful completion of the Watikah Submission Ceremony and Certificate of Appointment for members of the Gig Workers Tribunal (TPG) and the Gig Consultative Council (MPGiG), marking a significant milestone in the implementation of the Gig Workers Act 2025. The Act, which came into force on March 31, 2026, represents a major step forward in safeguarding the welfare of Malaysia’s estimated 1.64 million gig workers while ensuring fair treatment for platform provider entities. Ramanan emphasized that the appointments carry not only administrative duties but also a profound responsibility. “This is not merely a task, but a great mandate to ensure that every negotiation is conducted consistently, guided by the principles of comprehensive justice—protecting gig workers while maintaining fairness for platform providers,” he said. He noted that Malaysia is positioning itself as one of the earliest countries in Asia to introduce a dedicated legislative framework tailored to the rapidly evolving gig economy, reflecting the nation’s commitment to adapting to changing employment trends. The newly established Gig Workers Tribunal will serve as a platform for faster, collective, and equitable dispute resolution. Meanwhile, the Gig Consultative Council (MPGiG) will play a critical role in shaping policies, including proposals for minimum income rates and enhanced protection standards for gig workers. Ramanan expressed confidence in the appointed members, highlighting their expertise and commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable ecosystem. “I believe that through their dedication, we can create a fair, inclusive, and sustainable gig economy. The principle guiding us is clear: we are here to facilitate, not to frustrate,” he said. He added that the MADANI government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that Malaysia’s employment landscape continues to be progressive, competitive, and just for all. Ramanan concluded by congratulating all appointees and thanking them for their willingness to shoulder the responsibility on behalf of gig workers nationwide.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 — Deputy Minister R. Ramanan today announced the successful completion of the Watikah Submission Ceremony and Certificate of Appointment for members of the Gig Workers Tribunal (TPG) and the Gig Consultative Council (MPGiG), marking a significant milestone in the implementation of the Gig Workers Act 2025. The Act, which came into […]

Gig Workers Act 2025 Comes Into Force, Strengthening Protection for 1.64 Million Workers

PUTRAJAYA, 31 March — Malaysia today takes a major step in shaping its digital 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 digital 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/.

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 […]