Malaysia Pledges New Protections for Gig Economy Workers

Each morning, Syamil Azizi begins his long workday driving passengers across Penang. The 33-year-old sometimes pauses at noon to collect his daughters from school before returning to the road until evening. On weekends, he works a second job catering events. Syamil is one of millions in Malaysia's gig economy. These workers lack the safety nets of traditional employment, such as injury pay or pensions. The Malaysian government has now promised a new benefits system for this group. Officials say the plan will provide some social security. However, critics argue the proposed scheme has significant gaps and may not offer enough protection. The government is finalizing the program's details. The outcome will impact a large part of the country's workforce.