PETALING JAYA: Stronger and more punitive enforcement action should be considered to ensure gig platform providers fully integrate their systems with the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) for automatic deductions.
Malaysian E-hailing Coalition (GEM) chief activist Masrizal Mahidin said delays in integrating systems with PERKESO were no longer a technical constraint, as PERKESO had already confirmed its readiness to support implementation through an automated system.
He also said the failure of some platform providers to promptly align their systems with these requirements had raised serious questions about their commitment to complying with the Gig Workers Act 2025 and safeguarding the welfare of gig workers.
“Nearly a month after the enforcement of the Act, implementation on the ground has yet to show full compliance among platform providers.
“We believe that a soft landing approach to enforcement is no longer sufficient if non-compliance persists.
“Stronger and more punitive enforcement action should be considered to ensure full compliance by all parties,” he said in a statement on Thursday (April 23).
He added that the issue is no longer a technical matter, but a matter of compliance, integrity and industry responsibility.
“Statistics also show an urgent need for more comprehensive protection. The number of accidents under the self-employed protection scheme continues to rise year after year.
“So too does the number of benefit recipients, which is a clear signal that gig workers face real risks that cannot be taken lightly,” he said.
Last month, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said gig economy platform providers were given between three and six months to integrate their systems with PERKESO following the enforcement of the Act.
Ramanan said the government was taking a pragmatic approach by allowing the industry time to adjust, particularly in terms of technical implementation.
Under the Act, social security contributions for injuries and occupational diseases will become mandatory for all gig workers, at a rate of 1.25% for each completed task or transaction.
Platforms must now link their systems with PERKESO to enable automatic deductions, replacing the previously voluntary Self-Employed Social Security Scheme (SKSPS), now known as Lindung Kendiri.
Meanwhile, Masrizal said GEM also supported requiring all platform providers, including those not yet registered, to register and contribute so gig workers receive full protection.
“Malaysia is now at a critical juncture as one of the pioneering countries in the region in introducing a comprehensive legal framework for the gig sector.
“However, the strength of this policy will only be meaningful if its implementation is carried out firmly, consistently and without compromise.
“Social security for gig workers is not optional, it is a legally guaranteed right and a responsibility that must be fulfilled,” he said.
