Grab Malaysia has called on the government to ensure that the upcoming Gig Workers Bill is designed with sound regulations reflecting the realities of gig work, rather than rushed measures.
In a statement, the company stressed that the Bill should be guided by three principles: flexibility, balance, and innovation.
“We remain committed to collaborative efforts to ensure regulations are thoughtfully crafted, prioritising good regulations over rushed ones, for the benefit of all stakeholders,” Grab said.
The company expressed support for rules that protect gig workers’ flexibility and income opportunities but cautioned that over-regulation could stifle innovation, disrupt operations, and reduce gig opportunities, especially for smaller players facing high compliance costs.
On balance, Grab said the Bill must include clear, fair, and inclusive provisions, warning that unclear policies may lead to poor implementation and harm the very workers the Bill aims to protect.
“A thorough regulatory impact assessment and gradual policy implementation is essential to avoid unintended consequences such as higher consumer costs or reduced gig worker earnings,” it said.
Grab further stressed the need for innovation and collaboration, highlighting that a data-driven approach would ensure the Bill serves the long-term interests of all stakeholders.
Closer cooperation between regulators, platforms, and gig workers, it said, is crucial for building sustainable frameworks that are fair and inclusive for all types of gig work, not only platform-based jobs.
“By working together, we intend to co-create a framework that both protects gig workers and drives innovation and inclusive growth,” the statement concluded.
