Gig workers’ bill to be postponed, says Fahmi

 

The government proposes to introduce a safety net for gig workers that includes contributions to EPF, Sosco coverage and provisions for medical treatment costs. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

The tabling of the Gig Workers’ Economy Bill has been postponed to make way for further discussions, said government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil.

Fahmi, who is communications minister, said the Cabinet meeting today had been informed that human resources minister Steven Sim intends to postpone the tabling of the bill, Bernama reported.

“The postponement is intended to provide space and opportunities for further engagement with various parties, including discussions on the relevant timeframe,” he told a press conference following the Cabinet meeting in Putrajaya today.

Last week, a transport think tank urged the government to delay the proposed bill until next year, saying more engagements with stakeholders are needed.

MY Mobility Vision said rushing the bill without a more robust engagement process could lead to unintended challenges for both workers and platforms in the gig economy.

It pointed out that feedback from industry representatives revealed several concerns and gaps in the current draft of the bill.

Last month, deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the proposed legislation will be tabled by the human resources ministry in December after the conclusion of the debate on the Supply Bill 2025.

He said the proposed bill will introduce a safety net for gig workers, ensuring comprehensive protection that includes not only contributions to EPF but also coverage from the Social Security Organisation as well as provisions for medical treatment costs. - FMT