PUTRAJAYA: The tabling of the Gig Workers' Economy Bill, initially scheduled for next month, has been postponed.
Unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the matter, adding that several other bills planned for this parliamentary session were also likely to be delayed.
"I can confirm that this matter (The Gig Workers' Economy Bill) was discussed, and the cabinet was indeed informed that the Human Resources Minister intends to temporarily postpone it to allow for more engagement with various stakeholders.
"For further details, including the timeline, you may contact the minister himself, Steven Sim," he said during a post-cabinet meeting press conference today.
Yesterday, several gig economy platforms have called on the government to delay the tabling of the bill to allow broader engagement with stakeholders.
In a joint statement, Foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Halo Delivery, Kiddocare and Lalamove expressed concern about 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.
Fahmi said considering the limited number of days left in the current parliamentary sitting, several bills will likely be brought to the first meeting of the next session in February.
"Many of the bills currently being planned and prepared are in progress, including those under this ministry (Communications Ministry).
"For instance, the Malaysian Media Council Bill is in its final stages before being tabled in Parliament. However, we hope for its first reading during this session.
"This reflects the government's commitment to improvements, including enhancing the ecosystem for media practitioners."