Bill to introduce social protection framework to more than 1.12 million gig workers
A new bill granting protections to more than 1.12 million workers under Malaysia’s gig economy is set to be tabled in August or September, according to reports.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi made the announcement in a press conference after the Sharing Economy and Gig Industry Roundtable Session on Tuesday, Bernama reported.
"This is a significant step in introducing a social protection framework for over 1.12 million Malaysians involved in the sector," the deputy prime minister said as quoted by Bernama.
"Several countries have only amended existing laws to include the gig economy, but in Malaysia, we are introducing a new and dedicated act."
The proposed Gig Workers Bill 2025 defines gig workers as citizens or permanent residents earning an income through service agreements, whether written or verbal, The Malaysian Reserve reported.
Among those covered in the proposed bill are workers either involved in platform or non-platform gig work.
According to the bill, employers will be mandated to pay workers within seven days of service and provide payslips upon request. They will also be required to provide safe working conditions, equipment, and training to workers.
The proposed law is also expected to establish a Malaysia Gig Economy Commission, which will operate under the Prime Minister's Department, while the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation will serve as technical secretariat.
The commission aims to implement, coordinate, and monitor policies related to the gig economy, The Malaysian Reserve reported. It will also oversee compliance and industry standards, as well as encourage self-regulation among platforms.
It will also set up a Gig Workers Tribunal to handle disputes, as well as an advisory council to propose standards on minimum income, working conditions, and other policies.
Malaysia adds to the growing number of countries introducing protections for gig workers. Singapore passed a Platform Workers Bill last year that took effect this year.
According to Ahmad Zahid, the International Labour Organisation has taken an interest in learning from Malaysia’s experience in drafting the bill.
