By Danial Dzulkifly
PETALING JAYA, July 22 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced the establishment of a national-level secretariat dedicated to addressing the concerns and issues faced by gig workers.
He said the federal government will allocate RM1 million to start the secretariat, which will serve as a platform to receive the concerns of gig workers and ensure their interests are heard.
“To streamline concerns voiced by gig workers, I will allocate RM1 million for this purpose. This is important to ensure you (the gig workers) are not disorganised.
“You (gig workers) can choose who you want as your spokesperson in this secretariat.
“The function of this secretariat is to compile issues raised by gig workers and present them to me so I can (bring them) to the respective ministry, minister, state government or statutory body to iron out the issues,’’ he said, adding that some of the funds channelled to the secretariat are to hire permanent staff to ensure a clear line of communication for gig workers.
Anwar made the announcement earlier today during an engagement session with some 5,000 p-hailing workers at Laman MBPJ (Petaling Jaya City Council) here today.
During the engagement session, p-hailing workers posed several questions to Anwar, primarily expressing their concerns about labour exploitation stemming from the informal nature of their jobs.
One of the issues raised was low wages per delivery, which often amount to less than RM7, leaving delivery riders unable to cover their costs. P-hailing riders said this poses a struggle for them to earn a sustainable income.
At the session, Anwar asked gig workers to give him a week to meet with p-hailing companies for explanations on issues raised by riders.
“Give me one week and I will call all these p-hailing companies. I will meet all of them at the Prime Minister’s Office to convey all of your concerns, including the low wages per delivery,’’ he said.
Also present at the event was Selangor Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
During the engagement session, Anwar made a heartfelt plea to Malaysian youth, including gig workers, to join him in the mission of spurring the national economy and rejecting corruption.
Anwar emphasised the critical role the youth play in shaping the future of the country. He urged them to actively participate in driving economic growth, innovation, and progress.
Anwar highlighted the importance of upholding integrity and transparency in all sectors, particularly in the public service. He firmly denounced corruption and expressed his commitment to root it out of society.
