PETALING JAYA: A transport consultant has called on the human resources ministry to prioritise “substance over form” in the policy paper on establishing a gig economy commission, which is expected to be presented to a Cabinet committee today.
Wan Agyl Wan Hassan, who previously spoke against the establishment of such a commission, said the essence in regulating the industry lies in enacting the right laws that comprehensively address industry challenges.
He said amending laws to include the definition of gig workers, for example, would allow the formation of policies to deal with matters related to social security for the group, and that such an approach would address problems “immediately”.
Speaking to FMT, he said the human resources ministry is well equipped to implement these legal changes.
“While we support efforts to improve the gig economy, it is essential to focus on substantive legal reforms and avoid unnecessary bureaucratic expansions.
“The goal should be to create a balanced regulatory framework that protects workers while promoting industry innovation,” he said, adding that he was informed that the policy paper would be presented at a meeting chaired by deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Wan Agyl also described the commission as a double-edged sword which he said could lead to the over-regulation of the gig economy sector.
He said over-regulation could stifle industry growth and hinder the dynamic nature of the gig economy.
Wan Agyl, through his transportation and urban planning consultant firm Agyl & Partners, said last month that establishing a commission would risk adding another layer of bureaucracy which would lessen the appeal, especially for those who prefer autonomy and flexibility.
He also said that a commission would overlap with the responsibilities of the human resources ministry and Social Security Organisation, leading to inefficiencies and creating confusion about regulatory compliance.
He suggested that Putrajaya instead focus on enhancing existing frameworks to prevent the creation of “redundant” regulatory bodies and ensure a more streamlined process.
Wan Agyl nevertheless told FMT he was resigned to the likelihood that a commission would eventually be set up.
He voiced hope that the commission would streamline processes instead of complicating them with unnecessary layers of administration.
“While the government has the best of intentions behind setting up the commission, it’s vital that it does it right from the get-go,” he said.
It was previously reported that over 1.2 million people work in the gig economy sector.
