Explainer: Malaysia's anticipated Gig Workers Bill set for tabling after delays
KUALA LUMPUR: After two postponements, Malaysia's long-anticipated Gig Workers Bill is finally set to be tabled in parliament next month, aiming to provide much-needed legal and social protections for millions of Malaysians working in the gig economy.
Gig workers, such as e-hailing drivers, food delivery riders, and freelancers, are currently not covered under existing labour laws, leaving them vulnerable to inconsistent income, a lack of social security, and limited access to job-related protections or benefits.
The proposed legislation will formally define who qualifies as a gig worker and set out the rights and protections they are entitled to under Malaysian law.
According to Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, the bill aims to ensure that gig workers receive social protection through mandatory Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) contributions, fair income standards, and access to training and opportunities to upskill.
Currently, only 26 per cent of the 1.16 million gig workers in Malaysia are officially contributing to Perkeso through the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS), the minister said.
Additionally, platform companies, such as those in delivery or ride-sharing services, will face greater obligations to safeguard the welfare of their workers.
Last year, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the bill would also include provisions for Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contributions, further strengthening retirement security for gig workers.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also said the government plans to establish a dedicated commission to oversee gig workers' social protection, resolve contract disputes, and promote career advancement for gig workers in Malaysia.
The draft bill was completed following a study and a series of consultation and engagement sessions with 3,000 stakeholders.
It was originally scheduled for tabling in October 2024 but was postponed twice, first to November 2024, and now to the upcoming parliamentary session.
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