The National Press Club (NPC) Malaysia says it welcomes freelance journalists seeking a ‘home’ to represent them during dispute mediations under the Gig Workers Bill 2025.
NPC president Datuk Ahirudin Attan (image) said that under the club’s constitution, ordinary membership is open to residents in Malaysia who are part of the editorial staff of newspapers, radio and television stations, news agencies, photo services, feature services, magazines, government information services, and resident freelance journalists whose main income is derived from such media.
“The club has always been a home to all media practitioners, including freelance journalists and stringers, and to any journalist in need of counsel,” said Ahirudin.
“We are glad to extend a hand and lend an ear to our friends in the fraternity who require assistance.”
Ahirudin was responding to Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, who recently said that unions and associations could represent gig workers – including freelance journalists – in the Tripartite Consultative Council prescribed under the Bill, only if they include gig workers of the same profession among their members.
Sim’s briefing to the media was part of the ministry’s nationwide tour to enlighten gig workers about the new Bill, which has been passed by the Senate. Also present was Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
Ahirudin said the Gig Workers Bill, once gazetted, would provide a new dimension to freelance media members, including journalists and photographers.
“Passion is what drives journalists, but the industry faces multi-faceted challenges – especially for freelancers who struggle to make ends meet,” he said.
“The NPC is here for them, as we always have been.”
Under the Bill, a gig worker may lodge a written complaint of a dispute to his or her contracting entity. The contracting entity must initiate and resolve the dispute through an internal grievance mechanism within 30 days from the date the complaint is lodged.
If the gig worker is dissatisfied with the decision, or if the dispute remains unresolved after 30 days, the worker may submit the complaint for conciliation before the Director-General of Industrial Relations, Deputy Director-General, or any appointed officer.
If a settlement is still not reached, the matter will be referred to the Tribunal. Aggrieved parties may appeal the Tribunal’s decision at the High Court.
