KUALA LUMPUR – Kiddocare has declared its full support for the joint stance taken by leading gig economy platforms on the proposed Gig Worker Bill, emphasising the need for transparency, inclusivity, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
In a statement, the childcare-focused platform described the Bill as a “pivotal advancement” but cautioned against rushing its implementation.
“At Kiddocare, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocate for policies that harmoniously balance the interests of gig workers, platform companies, and the broader community,” the company said.
“We fully endorse the industry’s joint statement and wish to elaborate on the reasons for our alignment.”
Kiddocare stressed the importance of inclusive, face-to-face consultations to ensure the legislation reflects the diverse realities of gig work.
It said this inclusive approach ensures that unique perspectives—especially from childcare-focused platforms like Kiddocare, which operate at the intersection of the care economy and gender-specific considerations—are meaningfully incorporated into the legislative process.
The statement follows a joint plea from platforms such as foodpanda, GoGet, and Grab for the Government to delay the Bill’s December tabling.
These industry leaders warned that limited consultation and the lack of a complete draft could result in unintended consequences, such as higher consumer costs and reduced worker flexibility.
Kiddocare echoed these concerns, calling for transparency and a collaborative approach.
“Effective legislation stems from transparency and collaborative effort. We urge the sharing of draft bills and the establishment of a robust feedback mechanism.
“Such practices will contribute to well-informed, actionable regulations that serve the best interests of all stakeholders,” it said.
The platform also emphasised the importance of flexibility and inclusivity in the Bill’s framework.
“We support a definition of gig workers that encompasses all sectors, including care services. Recognising the unique dynamics inherent in gig work, we advocate for tailored regulations that enable us to continue providing flexible and empowering opportunities to women across Malaysia,” the statement noted.
Highlighting its proactive steps to ensure social protections, Kiddocare pointed to its provision of insurance coverage during service engagements.
“At Kiddocare, we have proactively taken steps to enhance the social safety net for our carers and customers. We provide insurance coverage during service engagements, offering protection and peace of mind to all parties involved.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to the well-being and security of our community and serves as a model for how platform companies can contribute to social protections within the gig economy,” the company said.
The platform further expressed its support for voluntary social protections, saying it remains “steadfast in our commitment to educating our carers and facilitating their access to programs that enhance their well-being and economic security—without compromising their autonomy and flexibility.”
Kiddocare urged the Government to avoid rushing the Bill, warning that doing so could lead to negative outcomes.
“We recognise the urgency in addressing the needs of gig workers; however, we caution against hastily enacting legislation without adequate consultation and consideration.
It said rushing the Bill may lead to unintended consequences that could undermine the very objectives it seeks to achieve.
A thoughtful, phased approach will allow for the development of well-crafted policies that genuinely benefit all stakeholders, it said.
As Parliament’s final sitting for the year approaches, Kiddocare reiterated its readiness to collaborate with the Government and industry leaders.
“Together, we can ensure that the Gig Worker Bill not only enhances opportunities and protections for everyone involved but also propels the gig economy toward a sustainable and prosperous future.” – November 21, 2024