Grab Malaysia Calls For Balanced, Flexible Regulations In Gig Workers Bill

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 21 (Bernama) -- Grab Malaysia has called on the government to ensure that the upcoming Gig Workers Bill is crafted with good regulations that reflect the realities of gig work, rather than rushed measures for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Grab Malaysia in a statement said the proposed bill should be guided by three principles which are flexibility, balance, and innovation.

“We remain committed to collaborative efforts to ensure that regulations are thoughtfully crafted to reflect the realities of gig work, prioritising good regulations, rather than rushed regulations, for the benefit of all stakeholders,” it said.

The company said they support regulations that protect workers’ flexibility and income opportunities that the gig economy offers but reminded that over-regulation could stifle innovation, disrupt operations, and reduce gig opportunities, especially for smaller players facing high compliance costs.

On its call for the proposed bill to be balanced, Grab said the bill must have clear, fair and inclusive provisions  as unclear policy alignment will lead to poor implementation of the bill, potentially harming the very people the Bill seeks to protect.

“A thorough regulatory impact assessment and gradual policy implementation is essential to avoid unintended consequences such as higher consumer costs or reduced gig worker earnings,” it said.

Grab also stressed the importance of innovation and collaboration for a more thoughtful and data-driven approach to ensure that regulations under the the proposed bill serve the long-term interests of all stakeholders. 

It said closer cooperation between regulators, platforms and gig workers is essential to build long-term sustainability, while ensuring the framework is fair and inclusive for all types of gig work, not just platform-based jobs.

“By working together, we intend to co-create a framework that not only protects gig workers but also drives innovation and inclusive growth for years to come,” it said.

--BERNAMA