<figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/smiley_girl_looking_laptop_d0ddc25324.jpg"></figure>This landmark legislation—the first of its kind in Southeast Asia—finally recognises gig workers (p-hailing, e-hailing, and freelancers) as a protected category. It is no longer just about "hustling"; it is about working with dignity and security.Here is a breakdown of your new rights, benefits, and legal protections under this Act.<hr><h3>1. The End of "Unfair Deactivation"</h3>The biggest fear for any ride-hailing driver or delivery partner is waking up to find their account "banned" or "suspended" without explanation.The New Protection: Platforms can no longer deactivate you arbitrarily.The Rules:Due Process: A platform must provide a valid reason for deactivation (e.g., misconduct or breach of contract).The 14-Day Limit: If you are suspended for an investigation, the suspension cannot exceed 14 days.Right to Appeal: You now have the statutory right to be heard. You can submit evidence to defend yourself before a final decision is made.<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>2. The Gig Workers Tribunal: Fast, Fair Justice</h3>Previously, if a platform refused to pay you, your only option was an expensive civil court lawsuit. This was impossible for most workers.The Solution: The establishment of the Gig Workers Tribunal.How It Works: This is a specialised court designed to handle disputes over payments, contract breaches, and unfair deactivations.Why It Matters:Cost-Effective: It is designed to be affordable for individuals.Speed: The Tribunal aims to resolve cases quickly (typically mandating a decision within 30 days of a hearing).Binding Power: Its decisions are legally binding, just like a Sessions Court order.<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>3. Mandatory Contracts &amp; Payment Transparency</h3>Gone are the days of vague verbal agreements or "black box" algorithms determining your fate.Written Agreements: Every platform or contracting entity must now provide a clear, written Service Agreement.What Must Be Included:Exact calculation of earnings (rates, tips, incentives).Payment deadlines (if not specified, the law mandates payment within 7 days of completing a job).Your scope of work and obligations.Transparency: You have the right to know how your pay is calculated, protecting you from hidden fee changes.<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>4. Social Security is No Longer Optional</h3>The safety net has been tightened. While you remain an independent worker, the state now mandates protection.Mandatory SOCSO (PERKESO): Registration under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) is now compulsory for gig workers on platforms.The Platform's Role: While the worker still contributes, platforms are now required to integrate their systems with SOCSO to facilitate automatic deductions. This ensures you are always covered for work-related injuries without the hassle of manual payments.The Benefit: If you get into an accident while delivering, you are guaranteed medical coverage and temporary disablement benefits.<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>5. The Gig Workers Consultative Council</h3>You now have a voice at the top table. The Bill establishes a Consultative Council comprising representatives from the government, platform providers, and gig worker associations.The Function: This council advises the Minister on policies, including minimum compensation rates and safety standards.Your Power: This legitimises gig worker associations/unions, giving you collective bargaining power to lobby for better base fares in the future.<hr><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/man_working_laptop_modern_co_working_space_50b3cefa48.jpg"></figure><h3>Action Plan: What You Need to Do Now</h3>Review Your New Contract: Platforms will be rolling out updated Terms of Service to comply with the 2026 law. Do not just scroll and click "Agree." Read the section on termination clauses and payment terms.Check Your SOCSO Status: Ensure your profile on the platform is linked to your SOCSO account for seamless deductions.Join an Association: With the new Consultative Council, joining a recognised group (like the Malaysian P-Hailing Riders Association) gives you a direct line to influence national policy.<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Conclusion</h3>The Gig Workers Bill 2026 is a massive step forward. It balances the flexibility you love with the security you deserve. You are no longer an "invisible" worker; you are a recognised professional with rights that are enforceable by law.<figure class="image"><a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=hiredly_career_advice_blog&amp;utm_campaign=gig_workers_bill_2026:_new_rights_&amp;_tribunal_explained" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/Email_8_Job_Recommender_You_Could_Be_Missing_Out_on_a_Dream_Job_bd02f05642.jpg"></a></figure>Whether it will be your first job or a <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/successful-career-switch" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">career change</a>, make sure your resume is up-to-date with the help of our <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/perfect-resume-checklist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">resume checklist</a>.When you’re ready, kickstart your career with jobs on <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=hiredly_career_advice_blog&amp;utm_campaign=gig_workers_bill_2026:_new_rights_&amp;_tribunal_explained" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly</a> today!

The Gig Workers Bill 2026 is here. Learn about your new protections against unfair deactivation, the Gig Workers Tribunal, and mandatory SOCSO coverage.