PUTRAJAYA: The establishment of a Gig Consultative Council and Gig Workers Tribunal, along with the drafting of the National Human Resources Policy 2026–2035, are among the key priorities of the Human Resources Ministry over the next two years, said Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
He said the initiatives aim to strengthen Malaysia’s employment ecosystem by ensuring fair governance, effective dispute resolution and improved worker welfare, particularly in the rapidly expanding gig economy.
According to Ramanan, the proposed Gig Consultative Council and Tribunal will provide a reality-focused mechanism to address the unique challenges faced by gig workers, while balancing flexibility and protection.
“The gig economy requires a different governance approach. These platforms will ensure disputes are resolved fairly and policies are shaped based on actual working conditions,” he said.
Ramanan was speaking at a press conference following his ‘clock in’ session and briefing with the ministry’s senior management here today.
He said the National Human Resources Policy 2026–2035 is being drafted to prioritise worker welfare, covering protection, safety, employment opportunities and skills development.
“As Human Resources Minister, my main focus is ensuring that workers’ welfare remains a priority, regardless of race, background or employment sector,” he said.
Ramanan emphasised that the Human Resources Ministry serves all Malaysian workers, including those in formal, informal and gig sectors.
To facilitate the establishment of the Gig Consultative Council and Tribunal, an interim team will be formed, with the goal of completing the process by the first quarter of 2026.
Other key priorities for the ministry include labour law reform, the implementation of the National Action Plan on Forced Labour 2.0 (2026–2030), and the introduction of a multi-tier levy mechanism.
Ramanan said these reforms are crucial to ensuring Malaysia’s labour system remains resilient, sustainable and aligned with international standards.
“I am fully committed to working closely with senior management, ministry staff and agencies under the ministry to ensure policies genuinely benefit the people,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for entrusting him with the portfolio and thanked former Human Resources Minister Steven Sim for his contributions.