KUCHING: Gabungan Kelab Media Malaysia (GKMM) has welcomed the approval of the Gig Workers Bill 2025, which was passed in the Dewan Rakyat today.
GKMM extends its congratulations and gratitude to Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, and his ministry’s team, as well as the Members of Parliament from both the government and opposition who are committed to ensuring the creation of a law that will end the injustice faced by 1.2 million gig workers in Malaysia.
“GKMM, which is supported by 14 media clubs and associations from various states, includes many members such as journalists, cameramen, and freelance videographers working with local media companies, including mainstream media outlets,” said GKMM in a statement today.
“Issues such as the lack of social protection, specifically from PERKESO, low pay rates that do not match the tasks performed, complicated claims procedures, and long periods for employers to settle claims have frequently been voiced by many of our members across the country.”
These grievances have now become urgent matters that need to be closely examined, addressed, and resolved by the respective employers.
GKMM supports the government’s initiative through the Ministry of Communications to fund the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) contributions for many journalists, cameramen, and freelance videographers in the past, ensuring they receive the proper social protection they deserve.
Several media clubs and associations in the states have also taken similar initiatives, helping to fund part of the PERKESO contributions for their members, with such efforts already in place for several years.
“With the passing of the Gig Workers Bill 2025 and the upcoming gazetting and enforcement of the law, GKMM urges employers who engage freelance journalists, cameramen, and videographers to hold meetings and discussions to review the need to formalise and develop fair and transparent work contracts, especially to address the issues mentioned earlier,” the statement added.
“Employers should not let the issues of social protection, low pay, complicated claim procedures, and long settlement periods persist without taking swift and effective action to resolve them.”
GKMM will continue to be committed to raising and advocating for issues, particularly those related to the welfare of journalists, cameramen, and freelance videographers in the country.
