Malaysia appoints 76 to new gig worker tribunal and council

LocalPolitics
3 Apr 2026 • 3:37 PM MYT
The Sun Daily
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76 officials appointed to new Gig Workers Tribunal and Advisory Council to enforce landmark law protecting over 1.64 million workers.

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 76 individuals were appointed to two key bodies established under the new Gig Workers Act 2025.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R Ramanan presented appointment letters to members of the Gig Workers Tribunal (TPG) and the Gig Advisory Council (MPGig).

The TPG appointments include 22 Industrial Court chairpersons serving as president, deputy president and tribunal members on an interim basis. A further 28 industrial relations officers with labour law expertise were also appointed.

Ramanan said the tribunal is a key pillar of the Act, providing a platform for fair, swift and cost-effective dispute resolution. “The tribunal has jurisdiction to hear, mediate and adjudicate disputes between gig workers and contracting entities,” he told reporters.

The MPGig comprises 26 members appointed effective April 1. Ramanan said the council functions as a consultative platform bringing together government, workers and contracting entities to advise on sector policies.

Key issues discussed at the council’s first meeting included a proposal to introduce a minimum earnings rate for gig workers. This floor price would be determined through consensus between the government, workers and contracting entities.

The council will also carry out analysis, research and data collection to ensure evidence-based decisions. Ramanan said the establishment of both bodies is expected to benefit more than 1.64 million gig workers nationwide.

He highlighted that Malaysia is among the earliest Asian countries to introduce dedicated legislation for gig workers. This move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate protection in line with the evolving employment landscape.

Meanwhile, Ramanan refuted claims by the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) that no engagement sessions were held before the Act’s enforcement. He clarified that nearly 400 sessions were conducted with various stakeholders between October 2024 and August 2025, including MTUC representatives.

“Without these engagements, it would not have been possible for stakeholders, including platform owners, industry associations and gig worker representatives, to be involved in this process,” he said.