Malaysia Introduces Gig Workers Bill 2025 to Protect Creative Industry Workers

Strategic Insights -

The Malaysian government has introduced the Gig Workers Bill 2025, aimed at safeguarding the welfare of approximately 30,000 to 40,000 gig workers in the creative industry. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching expressed confidence that the bill's clear dispute resolution mechanism would provide much-needed protection for artistes, who have long faced uncertainties such as delayed payments, lack of social protection, and safety issues. The bill establishes a Tripartite Consultative Council to enable gig workers to negotiate matters like wages and contract terms. The legislation also complements existing efforts by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) and the Social Security Organisation to provide a social safety net for artistes and production crews.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Gig Workers Bill 2025 aims to protect the rights of approximately 30,000 to 40,000 gig workers in the creative industry in Malaysia.
  • The bill establishes a clear dispute resolution mechanism to safeguard the welfare of gig workers, including artistes.
  • The establishment of a Tripartite Consultative Council enables gig workers to negotiate matters such as wages, contract terms, and working conditions.
  • The bill complements existing efforts by Finas and the Social Security Organisation to provide a social safety net for artistes and production crews.
  • The legislation will regulate terms and conditions of service agreements, establish a gig workers tribunal, and safeguard the safety and health of gig workers.
  • The Communications Ministry fully supports the bill and aims to ensure that members of the creative industry receive accurate information to understand how the law protects them.

Statistics:

  • 30,000 to 40,000 gig workers in the creative industry will be protected by the Gig Workers Bill 2025.
  • The bill was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on Aug 28, 2025.

Sources:

  • Source: BERNAMA News Agency (08 Sep 2025)
  • Source: Speech by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching (National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) press conference)