SEGIM UNDERSCORES MALAYSIA IS PROACTIVE IN FORMING A SUSTAINABLE GIG ECOSYSTEM

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- The establishment of the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM) underscores Malaysia is taking proactive steps to form a sustainable and inclusive gig ecosystem.

Chairman of the Malaysian Gig Economy secretariat Datuk Seri Mohd Sharkar Shamsudin said the commission is not just a tool for local discourse but is an effort to put Malaysia at the forefront to manage the gig economy effectively, ahead of Europe and the United States.

"Through SEGiM, we will build a comprehensive ecosystem to support gig workers, regardless of sector. SEGiM is not only for e-hailing drivers or food delivery workers but is also for freelancers, part-time workers, and artists such as actors and photographers among others.

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"Their work cannot be seen as temporary or informal because their contribution to the national economy is real and significant," he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Gig Malaysia MADANI Economic Convention here, today.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi officiated the event which was attended by Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan and MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.

According to Mohd Sharkar, one of SEGiM's main focuses is gig workers' protection, including ensuring that they get social security protection as with formal employment.

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Via the Social Security Organisation contribution, also known as Perkeso, and a clearer protection policy, he said the government will ensure gig workers are not marginalised from welfare and safety aspects.

"We are proud that Malaysia is one of the first countries in the world to establish a special commission for the gig economy, which makes us a pioneer in dealing with issues holistically.

"We do not wait until the challenges become serious. Instead, we act now to ensure a brighter future for all parties involved," he added.

With SEGiM, he said the government also intends to introduce reskilling and upskilling programmes with SEGiM to help gig workers overcome changes in the job market.

According to him, such programmes ensure they continue to be relevant and empower them.

"We also cannot ignore the important role of the private sector in supporting the gig ecosystem. The government is working closely with local and international companies to ensure that gig economic platforms benefit the people optimally," he said.

-- BERNAMA