KUALA LUMPUR: Platform providers in the gig economy are now mandated to automatically deduct PERKESO contributions from the earnings of gig workers as stipulated under the Gig Workers Bill.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim (pic), who disclosed this, said the Bill which was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on Aug 28 and Dewan Negara on Sept 9, legally requires platforms providers to submit worker information to PERKESO and integrate automatic contribution deductions through their digital systems.
“This Bill ensures gig workers are no longer left behind. Platform providers must automatically deduct PERKESO contributions through their digital intermediary systems so workers no longer have to manage contributions on their own,” he said in a written parliamentary reply yesterday.
Sim said the automated mechanism would also allow PERKESO to collect contributions “more transparently and effectively”, without placing additional administrative burden on platform operators.
As of Sept 19, PERKESO recorded 297,073 gig workers actively contributing under the Lindung Kendiri scheme.
He said enforcement powers under the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 (Act 789) would now enable PERKESO to conduct inspections and ensure full compliance among platform providers.
To support nationwide implementation of the Bill, Sim said the ministry carried out 7,208 engagement sessions with agencies and gig workers, including several large-scale rider events in Penang, Perlis and nationwide.
“A Smart Detection system has also been introduced to identify platforms that fail to register or contribute for their workers,” Sim said.
“Gig workers are a vital part of Malaysia’s new economy, and they deserve the same level of social protection as formal sector employees.”
