KUALA LUMPUR – PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar has thrown her full support behind the Gig Workers Bill 2025, which aims to protect the rights of over 1.2 million gig workers in Malaysia and elevate their dignity within the labour market.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Nurul Izzah highlighted the crucial role gig workers played in the country’s economy, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when they worked around the clock to ensure businesses remained open and essential services were delivered.
“During the pandemic, gig workers were on the frontlines, working tirelessly day and night, braving all conditions to ensure there was food on our tables,” she said.
Nurul Izzah commended Human Resources Minister Steven Sim for pushing the bill forward, which she believes is a key step in protecting the gig economy workforce.
She also praised Sim for his extensive consultations, which have involved over 4,000 stakeholders, despite attempts by certain parties to delay the bill’s passage.
Having fought for the welfare of gig workers during her previous tenure as a lawmaker, Nurul Izzah described continuing the fight alongside Sim as even more meaningful this time.
Among the key concerns raised by gig workers are the lack of social protection in case of injury and the absence of avenues for fair dispute resolution.
Nurul Izzah recounted one worker’s experience of not receiving any compensation after an accident, leaving his family without income for months.
In response, the Gig Workers Bill will make it mandatory for all gig workers to be covered by Perkeso, ensuring that workers are not left without protection.
Another serious issue affecting gig workers is the unfair suspension of accounts due to false customer complaints.
Nurul Izzah reiterated her previous proposal to establish a special tribunal to address such grievances and impose penalties on companies that fail to resolve disputes.
She also advocated for gig workers to be given the ability to negotiate their pay and working conditions. “There needs to be a forum where the government, companies, and gig workers can meet to discuss solutions,” she said.
Nurul Izzah expressed her gratitude that her suggestions have been incorporated into the bill, which she sees as a critical step toward recognising the rights and dignity of gig workers.
“Gig workers have dignity and a future. They deserve to be protected so that society no longer sees them as disposable,” she said. – August 25, 2025