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THE Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) has begun a nationwide roadshow to educate gig economy workers on their rights and protections under the newly passed Gig Workers’ Bill 2025, while also collecting feedback to improve future legislation.
Minister Steven Sim said the campaign has already reached workers in Penang, Perlis and Kuala Lumpur, including e-hailing drivers, musicians, and film industry professionals.
“We’re not only moving state by state – we are tailoring our outreach to the audience and location,” said Sim during a press briefing after a community engagement event titled *Jalan Teruihhh Lindung Kendiri X Santai Anak Utara* at Dataran Dato’ Sheikh Ahmad last night.
“My aim is to bring this roadshow to the entire country,” he added.
Parliament recently passed the Gig Workers’ Bill 2025, which is now pending royal assent from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim before it can be gazetted. The legislation seeks to formally safeguard the rights and welfare of workers in Malaysia’s rapidly growing gig sector.
Sim said the programme in Kangar formed part of the ongoing awareness campaign and included a Q&A session, where many gig workers sought clarification on social security protections under the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO).
“We also want to hear their views on the Bill. This is the first time we’re introducing such a law, so their feedback is vital to help us refine and improve it in the future,” he said.
Gig workers interviewed at the event welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for the government’s engagement.
Food delivery rider Hasina Abdul Hamid, 51, from Beseri near Padang Besar, said she now better understood her rights and the PERKESO benefits available to her.
“These kinds of programmes should be held more often. The Minister explained everything clearly and calmly. I really appreciated the detailed information provided,” she said.
Another rider, Suhaimi Harun, 58, also from Padang Besar, echoed the sentiment, saying the session gave him greater clarity on how the law and PERKESO will support gig workers.
“I hope these efforts continue, and that more government agencies get involved. This Bill not only strengthens protections but also formally recognises our contribution to the country,” he said. - October 12, 2025