The long-awaited Gig Workers Bill, touted as the world’s first dedicated legislation for the gig economy, has been delayed yet again — this time for the 3rd time.
Initially set for its first reading in Parliament on 14 August 2025, the postponement comes despite assurances just a week earlier from Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim at the Sembang Santai Teh Tarik: Industri Gig session.
No official explanation has been provided, leaving gig workers, platforms, and industry players in limbo.
What the Bill Aims to Do? 👀
The bill is designed to:
- Establish the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission as the main regulatory body.
- Provide legal protections and fair treatment for gig workers.
- Promote a balanced, inclusive economy where workers and platforms can thrive.
Support has been strong, particularly from e-hailing associations, but experts say the devil lies in the details.
Key Concerns from Stakeholders
- Flexibility vs. Minimum StandardsRahman Hussin from Kiddocare warned that setting a minimum wage and defining minimum working hours could undermine gig work’s essence: flexibility.
- Social Security & Multi-Platform WorkersThe Malaysian Bar Council pushed for clearer rules on SOCSO contributions for workers who operate across multiple platforms.They also flagged concerns over rigid restrictions on income deductions, which might limit innovation or cause unintended consequences.
- Overlapping RegulationsWith both the Human Resource Ministry and Transport Ministry potentially regulating e-hailing/p-hailing, risks of confusion and duplication loom.
- Consumer CostsEconomist Doris Liew highlighted the risk of higher costs being passed to consumers if platforms face heavier compliance burdens.Drivers, already struggling with slim margins, could also be squeezed further by stricter rules.
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Bigger Picture: A First of Its Kind
If passed, Malaysia’s bill would be the first dedicated gig worker law globally, positioning the country as a pioneer in gig economy regulation.
But, experts caution:
- Rigid, outdated rules could stifle innovation. 💥💥💥 (This was also highlighted by Grab)
- Flexible, adaptive policies are essential to balance protections and economic realities.
As gig work becomes deeply embedded in everyday life, the stakes are high. Workers continue to face weak protections, low social security coverage, and limited career mobility — issues the bill seeks to address.
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| Source: Instagram |
Final Thoughts
The delay may be frustrating, but experts argue that getting it right matters more than rushing. If crafted carefully, the Gig Workers Bill could set a global benchmark — providing workers the protections they deserve, while ensuring platforms remain sustainable.
For now, gig workers and industry players wait, hoping the eventual legislation delivers the clarity and fairness long promised.
Again... Take note!
Over-regulation could stifle innovation, disrupt operations and reduce gig opportunities, especially for smaller players facing high compliance costs.
Read also: Malaysia’s Gig Workers Bill risks killing jobs to save them — MY Mobility Vision
Reference: https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2025/08/1262092/unresolved-issues-cloud-gig-workers-bill
Again... Take note!
Over-regulation could stifle innovation, disrupt operations and reduce gig opportunities, especially for smaller players facing high compliance costs.
Read also: Malaysia’s Gig Workers Bill risks killing jobs to save them — MY Mobility Vision
Reference: https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2025/08/1262092/unresolved-issues-cloud-gig-workers-bill
#GigEconomy #Malaysia #GigWorkersBill #Parliament #WorkerProtection #FutureOfWork
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