Better financial literacy for delivery riders

KUALA LUMPUR: Delivery rider Mohd Saiful Samion used to struggle with managing his money, but since joining the Credit Counsel­ling and Debt Management Agen­cy’s (AKPK) GoGiggers 2024 pro­gramme, he now has better financial literacy.

Mohd Saiful said the prog­ram­me has significantly changed the way he manages his finances.

“Before signing up for the GoGiggers programme, I often struggled with managing money.

“This programme has opened my mind and taught me how to handle my finances better.

“Now, I have emergency funds and feel more confident about my future and that of my wife,” he said.

AKPK said in a statement that participants showed a 34.4% improve­ment in their financial ­welfare, a 13.1% increase in financial knowledge and an 18.5% positive change in financial behaviour.

Foodpanda and Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) served as strategic partners of the programme, which has managed to spur 74% of participants to start their own emergency savings.

BSN reported that Giro savings collected exceeded RM68,000, while investments in Premium Savings Certificates surpassed RM40,000, Bernama reported.

Beyond saving, participants were also exposed to the importance of voluntary contributions to the Employees Provident Fund and the Social Security Organi­sa­tion’s (Perkeso) protection schemes to ensure a more stable financial future.

Meanwhile, AKPK Education and Outreach Division general manager Nor Fazleen Zakaria said the initiative greatly bene­fited gig workers who often face challenges such as uncertain income, lack of savings and limi­ted financial coverage.

“We view every gig worker as the backbone of the modern eco­nomy, working hard to ensure a better life for their families.

“Yet, like other workers in Malay­sia who contribute to the national economy, they also face major challenges like uncertain income, insufficient savings and limited financial protections,” she said.

Since its launch on Sept 6, 2024, GoGiggers 2024 has attracted over 100 riders. The programme aims to em­po­wer the gig community with effective financial management skills.