KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysian government will enforce the Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872) in 2026 to provide clearer legal recognition and better protection for gig workers.

Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the move shows the ministry’s commitment to strengthening the social safety net for 3.45 million informal workers, who make up 21.8% of Malaysia’s workforce.

He said amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 have also introduced the 24-Hour LINDUNG Scheme, which offers full protection during employment, including accidents that occur outside working hours.

“The principle of leaving no one behind will continue to underpin the nation’s labour and social protection policies.

“The government is committed to ensuring that the development of the national digital economy does not come at the expense of workers’ well-being and the future of their families,” he said when winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the Royal Address for the Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) at the Dewan Rakyat, last Tuesday.

Ramanan said Budget 2026 provides incentives to encourage participation, including government support of 70% of contributions for first-time registrants in non-mandated sectors under the Self-Employed LINDUNG Scheme, and 50% for voluntary contribution renewals in the second year.

As of Dec 31 last year, 869,913 self-employed individuals were actively contributing under the scheme, including 299,674 gig workers and e-hailing drivers.