Malaysia to explore minimum income floor for gig workers via tripartite talks, as Ramanan says stakeholders will seek fair, balanced compensation framework.
KUALA LUMPUR: Establishing a minimum income floor for gig workers will be the primary agenda at the upcoming gig conference, according to Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
The Sungai Buloh MP stated that the conference will prioritise discussions on a baseline rate for gig workers, with Gig Advisory Council (MPGig) Chairman Datuk Dr Mohd Ghazali Abas set to spearhead the process.
“The most important [item] is the gig conference, which will be held shortly. The priority will be on the minimum income, the price floor,” he said.
Ramanan added that any decision regarding a minimum income would be reached through a tripartite mechanism involving employers, contracting entities, workers and the government.
“It is a tripartite decision. Everyone is involved, and they will find the best middle ground,” he said.
Ramanan further explained that the MPGig Meeting No. 1 of 2026 will discuss proposals for the terms of reference regarding a study titled ‘Fair Compensation Structure for Gig Workers in Malaysia’.
The study aims to examine minimum income rates, calculation formulas and sectoral standards.
The initial phase will focus on platform-based gig workers before expanding to include non-platform contracting entities.
“These discussions will form the basis for a more transparent, data-driven framework for determining gig worker compensation, ensuring policies that are fair, balanced and sustainable for all stakeholders,” Ramanan said.
He emphasised that this approach is guided by principles of comprehensive fairness, aimed at protecting the welfare of gig workers while maintaining a sustainable and equitable business ecosystem.
Ramanan added that the initiative could eventually serve as a regional reference point for developing resilient gig economy ecosystems.
The Minister also highlighted that Malaysia has reached a significant milestone in its labour landscape with the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025.
This includes the establishment of the Gig Workers Tribunal (TPG) and the MPGig, both aimed at strengthening a fair and inclusive gig economy.
