MTA STRENGTHENS TIES WITH GIG WORKERS, PROMOTES TAKAFUL AWARENESS

KUALA LUMPUR, March 22 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) remains committed to strengthening its relationship with the gig worker community through various initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the importance of takaful protection to ensure that they are better prepared to face income uncertainties and job-related risks.

Its chief executive officer Mohd Radzuan Mohamed said the takaful industry had recognised the need to protect gig workers since 2022 through a study conducted on takaful demand among the B40 group.

"Most gig workers fall into this category, comprising young individuals, whether single or married, who play a crucial role in the national economy. Therefore, their well-being and protection must be given due attention," he said after attending a breaking of fast event with gig economy workers here last night.

He said the event, organised by MTA in collaboration with Etiqa General Takaful Berhad, was not only a charitable initiative but also a platform to engage with gig workers and educate them on the benefits of takaful protection.

"This iftar programme is a gesture of support and commitment to working with e-hailing and p-hailing associations, as well as the entire gig worker community," he said.

At the event, 300 meal packs were distributed to the gig worker community, consisting of e-hailing drivers and food delivery riders.

It was also attended by Etiqa General Takaful Berhad chief executive officer Shahrul Azuan Mohamed and Gabungan e-Hailing Malaysia chairman Jose Rizal.

Mohd Radzuan added that the MTA is also planning to hold a special programme to encourage e-hailing drivers and food delivery riders to become takaful agents, providing them with an opportunity to earn additional income.

"This effort aims to enable gig workers to supplement their earnings by promoting takaful products while carrying out their daily work," he said.

Meanwhile, Jose welcomed the collaboration, highlighting that the e-hailing and p-hailing community faces challenges such as unstable income and rising living costs.

"We hope this collaboration does not end here but is further expanded with more engagement sessions to better understand the actual needs of the gig worker community," he said.

-- BERNAMA