PETALING JAYA: Steven Sim’s exit from the Human Resources Ministry marks the end of a tenure that saw stronger recognition for gig and platform workers as Malaysia adapts to a changing labour landscape, say industry representatives.
Gabungan E-Hailing Malaysia chief activist Masrizal Mahidin said Sim’s time in office was significant in formally acknowledging gig workers as a distinct and growing segment of the workforce, particularly through the introduction and early development of the proposed Gig Workers Bill.
“His tenure marked an important phase in recognising gig and platform workers as a distinct and growing segment of Malaysia’s workforce.
“The engagement with platform operators, worker representatives and civil society groups has helped embed gig workers’ concerns into the national labour reform agenda,” he said.
Although challenges such as income volatility, limited social protection and enforcement gaps remain, Masrizal said the policy shift under Sim ensured these issues were no longer sidelined, and that his contributions in advancing the discussion deserved recognition.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Sim had been appointed the Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister.
His portfolio at the Human Resources Ministry was taken over by Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
Commenting on Ramanan’s appointment, Masrizal said the ministry was now at a critical juncture, with expectations moving from policy formulation to execution, particularly for gig and platform workers.
“The groundwork laid for the Gig Workers Bill provides an important reference point, but clarity on protections, responsibilities and enforcement will be key going forward,” he said, expressing hope that the new leadership would bring “fresh perspectives, energy and pragmatism” to labour governance.
Malaysia E-Hailing Drivers Association president Daryl Chong echoed those sentiments, commending Sim for demonstrating strong commitment to advance workers’ welfare through inclusive and forward-looking labour reforms.
“Notably, his efforts to engage stakeholders across sectors laid important groundwork for initiatives such as the ongoing Gig Workers Bill, which seeks to formalise protections for Malaysia’s growing gig economy workforce,” Chong said, adding that constructive dialogue on wage standards and labour rights had created a solid foundation for future reforms.
Welcoming Ramanan’s appointment, Chong urged the new minister to prioritise the smooth progression and implementation of the Gig Workers Bill, address wage disparities and strengthen frameworks that balance the needs of workers and employers.
“It is critical that the ministry continues to modernise labour policies to meet the challenges of an evolving workforce while maintaining Malaysia’s competitiveness in the regional economy,” he said.
