THE Malaysian Professional Film Workers Association (Profima) is optimistic that the rights and welfare of film workers will be better protected with the set-up of the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM).
Profima president Khalil Salleh says discussions with the SEGiM Secretariat chaired by Datuk Seri Mohd Sharkar Shamsudin has inspired confidence that issues in the sector will be resolved.
"Profima had been eagerly awaiting the meeting.
"We know that with SEGiM, all the problems film workers face will be handled and the rights of creative industry workers better defended.
"SEGiM is important as it will be a point of reference for gig workers like us in matters related to the law, enforcement, career advancement, educational training and so on," he said in a recent report.
It has been reported that a new employment law to protect gig economy workers in Malaysia is expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat by the end of the year.
Khalil said several matters were discussed in the meeting between Profima and the SEGiM Secretariat, including the commission's framework.
"The meeting was an opportunity for Profima to introduce the organisation, its roles, tasks and activities."
Khalil said Profima welcomes the government's efforts in establishing SEGiM, following several issues concerning freelance workers.
"Profima hopes that SEGiM will look into all aspects in meeting the needs of skilled and semi-skilled gig workers in the sector."