KUCHING: Malaysia made history with the passage of the Gig Workers Bill 2025 in Parliament, a move that not only marks a policy milestone but also recognises more than 1.2 million gig workers who form the backbone of the nation’s digital economy.
The new law establishes an inclusive social protection framework through the ‘Lindung Kendiri’ programme, offering access to eight types of social security benefits, employment and workplace injury insurance, rehabilitation services, and income support.
The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division chairman, Zaidi Nasar, said the Bill was the result of collaboration between government, platform providers, worker representatives, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and academics, following more than 40 engagement sessions across states and regions.
He expressed appreciation for the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, and Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad, who he said ensured the law was drafted transparently, fairly and in line with the people’s voice.
“With the Bill now in place, gig workers are encouraged to take proactive steps for a more secure future.
“These include registering with Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) to join the Lindung Kendiri scheme, learning about their rights through official channels, keeping written contracts and work records, using the Gig Workers Tribunal for payment disputes or exploitation cases, and joining worker associations to strengthen their voice in policy and negotiations,” he said.
He pointed out that the law also reinforces industrial relations in the platform economy by formally defining gig workers, requiring written contracts, setting minimum payment rates, creating the Gig Workers Consultative Council as a social dialogue platform, and establishing a tribunal to resolve disputes quickly and at low cost.
According to him, these measures are consistent with the International Labour Organisation’s Decent Work Agenda, which highlights workplace rights, social dialogue and the extension of social protection.
“The Gig Workers Bill 2025 not only strengthens rights and welfare but also opens a new chapter for Malaysia’s labour force towards a more flexible, secure and dignified future. This is a landmark moment for a fairer, more inclusive and humane Malaysia,” he said.
