Malaysia enforces Gig Workers Act 2025, granting legal protection, SOCSO coverage, and dispute mechanisms for 1.64 million gig workers.
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has officially rewritten the rules of the gig economy with the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872), a landmark move that guarantees legal protection for gig workers and positions the country as a regional trailblazer in the digital workforce.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the Act provides gig workers with essential legal safeguards while preserving the flexibility that defines gig work.
The legislation is expected to benefit an estimated 1.64 million gig workers, offering clearer service agreements, structured dispute resolution, social security coverage through the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO), and occupational health and safety safeguards.
“Today, Malaysia takes the lead in shaping the future of work in the region.
“Unlike countries such as Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines, which are rolling out protections gradually or limiting them to specific sectors, Malaysia has introduced a comprehensive legal framework that spans all gig industries,” he said at a press conference on the enforcement of the Act today.
Under the Act, gig workers are defined as Malaysian citizens or permanent residents who have agreements with contract entities — whether platform-based or non-platform — and receive payment for services rendered.
“The Act is not confined to e-hailing or delivery workers alone.
“It also protects non-platform gig workers across sectors such as performing arts, translation, journalism and personal care, ensuring alignment with government policies,” Ramanan explained.
Addressing concerns about coverage, Ramanan reassured stakeholders that the Act includes mechanisms to expand the definition of gig work over time.
“Under Section 110 of Act 872, we can add new categories of workers whenever needed. So there is flexibility, and no sector will be left out,” he said.
A cornerstone of the Act is the establishment of the Gig Consultative Council, a tripartite platform comprising government representatives, gig workers and contract entities.
The first council meeting is scheduled for April 3, a week after the Act’s enforcement, with minimum income rates for gig workers as its inaugural agenda.
The council will also advise the government on sectoral standards, policy matters, and recommendations grounded in market data and research.
Twenty-six members from diverse backgrounds have been appointed to the council.
Ramanan also outlined the Act’s complaint and dispute resolution mechanisms.
“Gig workers can now lodge complaints about pay, account suspensions or breaches of service agreements through an online portal at https://eaduan-gig.mohr.gov.my, or via any ministry office under the ‘No Wrong Door’ policy.
“Complaints will be reviewed and forwarded to the relevant agencies, with a target resolution of 21 working days,” he said.
For unresolved disputes, the Act establishes a Gig Workers Tribunal — an independent forum designed to provide professional, impartial and speedy resolution of employment disagreements.
Hearings will be held at existing Human Resource Ministry facilities, including labour and industrial courts as well as SOCSO offices nationwide.
“Through the enforcement of the Gig Workers Act 2025, the government demonstrates its commitment to legal protection for all workers, including those in the gig economy.
“This legislation lays a strong foundation for a fairer, more inclusive future of work in Malaysia and may serve as a model for the region and beyond,” Ramanan said.
