Parliamentarians today raised concern over gig workers’ vulnerability to unchecked algorithms and the lack of accountability in platforms.
Debating the Gig Workers Bill, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (Muda–Muar) said gig workers lived at the mercy of “algorithm gods” that could slash their pay without warning.
“Today you earn RM100 after 10 hours of work, tomorrow a change in the algorithm can cut your earnings by 50% instantly – with no notice, no discussion, and no mercy,” he said.
Dr Taufiq Johari (PH–Sungai Petani) said algorithms served as a silent authority in the gig economy, dictating tasks and performance ratings without checks.
“Algorithms have long acted as the silent boss, making critical decisions from assigning jobs to rating performance, without any human review,” he said.
Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal (PN–Machang) said the Gig Workers Bill should require platforms to disclose how their algorithms work as hidden systems currently decide workers’ pay and job access without accountability.
He called for clear rules on data use, fair pay, and protections against rating-based bias.
Fayhsal warned that without such provisions, the law would look good on paper but fail in practice, leaving workers still at the mercy of platforms.
“The law must ensure workers know the factors that affect their income… Not leave them in the dark,” he said.
The Gig Workers Bill 2025, which was passed by the Dewan Rakyat today, is aimed at providing protection and recognition for workers in the sector.
Key elements include an official definition of gig workers, setting minimum compensation, establishing a complaints mechanism, and ensuring social security protection through mandatory contributions to Perkeso.
The bill also establishes a new consultative council for gig workers, where workers and firms can sit as equals to decide on fair pay and standards.
