PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar has pledged to devote resources towards ensuring gig workers have the necessary protection and incentives to continue thriving in the informal job sector.
She said that she would work closely with Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong to legislate the protection of a growing rate of gig workers, including with social security protection and understanding their basic rights as workers.
Izzah said that young workers must know their rights in the respective workplaces to avoid been exploited and displaced.
It was reported that the country now employs more than three million gig workers, who are mostly young and educated.
Speaking at a gathering of undergraduates, mostly from Universiti Sains Malaysia at the Raia Inn in Bayan Lepas, Nurul Izzah said the country's future is with the main stakeholders - the young generation or Gen Z.
"Remember I was young once. I can share your frustration in a system which can at times be demoralising and demeaning, but we must strive on," she said.
Later, she told The Vibes that she is now trying to manage the expectations of the young due to the convergence of many stifling issues.
From the US imposition of import tariffs to growing conflicts, climate change and trade wars, she recognised the need for youths to be resilient, mentally and physically in coping with the challenges that they are facing in a sluggish economic climate.
Izzah said that despite the global situation, the energy and determination of the young can be applied into productive ventures and experiences.
Former Senator Yusmadi Yusoff, who was also present, underlined the importance of courage, conviction and knowledge so youths can make the right choices as they enter adulthood.
Reflecting on his 25-years in the PKR reform movement, the former Balik Pulau MP emphasised that youths must cultivate three essential qualities: a sense of purpose, close proximity to social issues, and unwavering conviction.
"Reforms gave me my sense of purpose," he said.
"I didn’t just talk about issues from afar. I got close to the struggles, I immersed myself, and I committed with courage and conviction."
Reflecting on his own journey, Yusmadi reminded the students that reforms are not merely a programme or an event, but a continuous movement for justice and change.
"It's been over 25 years, and I am still standing with the reform agenda. I will continue until we succeed convincingly," he affirmed, drawing applause from the audience.
Yusmadi encouraged students to first muster the courage to act, then build conviction, and finally, pursue knowledge to sustain their efforts. - July 1, 2025.
