KUALA LUMPUR: Gig economy platforms have called on the government to delay the tabling of the proposed Gig Worker Bill to make way for broader engagement with stakeholders.
In a joint statement, Foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Halo Delivery, Kiddocare and Lalamove expressed concern over limited engagement with industry players and gig workers.
They said a full draft of the proposed amendments had not been shared and the feedback process was insufficient.
The companies requested a postponement of the Bill, which is slated for tabling next month.
"This extension will allow for more comprehensive consultations with both gig workers and industry players," they said.
"We remain committed to engaging in constructive dialogue and collaboration with the government to successfully realise the intended objective, and ultimately achieve measurable impact for gig workers."
The platforms stressed the importance of thorough engagement with all stakeholders, including platform companies, gig workers, academics and industry experts.
"A phased and inclusive approach will help capture the diverse needs of the gig economy and help prevent any unintended consequences, such as challenges in policy adoption, implementation inefficiencies, as well as compliance, higher entry barriers for gig workers, business disruptions for vendors and increased costs for consumers."
"We kindly request that the draft Gig Worker Bill be shared for review and input from industry stakeholders.
"Experience from other jurisdictions indicates that a phased consultation process is crucial for developing effective, balanced regulations that benefit all parts of the gig work ecosystem."
The platforms called for a broader definition of gig workers to cover more sectors beyond e-hailing and p-hailing, similar to the Social Security Organisation's Self-Employment Social Security Act.
They said recognising gig workers as distinct from traditional employees would enable regulations to be tailored to the unique nature of gig work.
They added that a market-driven approach would allow labour to move freely across industries based on demand and willingness to pay.
"This approach helps maintain a balance and avoid potential challenges, such as higher consumer prices, reduced demand and lower earnings for gig workers.
"It ensures fair earnings while keeping services accessible and sustainable."
The platforms suggested voluntary enrolment in schemes facilitated by awareness campaigns and streamlined processes.
"We are committed to partnering with the government to co-create effective regulations that protect gig workers and position Malaysia as a leader in the digital economy."
The group also believed a well-crafted regulatory framework should uphold the gig economy's flexibility while safeguarding workers, fostering innovation and addressing consumer needs.