Malaysia

SOCSO enforces mandatory social protection for gig workers under new law

Social Security Organisation begins enforcing the Workers Gig Act 2025 requiring digital platform providers to register and contribute on behalf of gig workers

Updated 2 months ago · Published on 16 May 2026 12:48PM

SOCSO enforces mandatory social protection for gig workers under new law
The Act requires service platform operators to integrate their worker data systems with the agency to facilitate monitoring and verification processes - May 16, 2026

THE Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) has begun enforcing the Workers Gig Act 2025, making it compulsory for digital platform providers to ensure gig workers are registered and contributing under the national social protection scheme.

Perlis SOCSO director Ahmad Firdaus Hashim said the law, which came into force on 31 March, also requires service platform operators to integrate their worker data systems with the agency to facilitate monitoring and verification processes.

He said the integration mechanism was crucial in ensuring assistance could be delivered quickly and efficiently should workers be involved in accidents or emergencies while carrying out their duties.

“From that date, protection coverage has already commenced. Once this data integration exists, we can ensure all information across every platform is synchronised and make certain the contributions are paid,” he said when met yesterday.

The move marks a significant step in formalising social security coverage for Malaysia’s rapidly expanding gig economy workforce, particularly those involved in transport, food delivery and logistics services.

According to Ahmad, a total of 5,044 self-employed contributors across 20 sectors were registered with SOCSO in Perlis last year.

Of that figure, 385 individuals were gig workers engaged in passenger transport, goods delivery and food delivery services.

The enforcement of the new legislation is aimed at strengthening welfare protection for gig workers, many of whom previously operated outside traditional employment frameworks without guaranteed insurance or social security coverage. - May 16, 2026

Spotlight

Malaysia

Six per cent growth proves Malaysia's economy remains resilient - PM

Malaysia

DAP must have an 'exit clause' if it opts to remain in government - Ramkarpal

Malaysia

Police looking for two women who allegedly stole gold bracelet (video)

Malaysia

BN’s relations with PN put further strains on PH - KJ

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

MRT suddenly stops at Bukit Bintang and all went dark (video)

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Couple plead guilty over death of three-month-old baby in their care

Malaysia

PKR allows Nurul Izzah open-ended leave to pursue PhD, keeps door open for return

Malaysia

Mediation centres are a positive alternative in defamation cases

You may be interested

Malaysia

To leave or to stay? Penang and Kedah DAP remain undecided

By Ian McIntyre

Malaysia

Inspector, policewoman plead guilty to khalwat

Malaysia

Lorry driver fined RM9,000 after eight-vehicle crash on North-South Expressway

Malaysia

Mediation centres are a positive alternative in defamation cases

Malaysia

SARA aid may be expanded to put healthier food within reach of all Malaysians

Malaysia

PH confident DAP will remain in MADANI Government ahead of key national conference

Malaysia

Reformasi must be defined by results, not who holds power - PKR AMK Chief

Malaysia

DAP must have an 'exit clause' if it opts to remain in government - Ramkarpal