KBS, KKMM launch myGIG programme to support youths

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia (MOH) yesterday launched the myGIG Programme as a strategic approach to support youths in the post-COVID-19 gig economy ecosystem.

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the programme was the first cross-ministerial collaborative effort offered to youth using the ‘eRezeki’ and ‘GLOW’ platforms under the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), which would be known as ‘myGIG Servis’ and ‘myGIG Digital Freelance’.

"The programme is a synergy of the cross-ministerial collaboration undertaken by KBS in an effort to help youths improve their self-esteem and optimise the growth of the gig economy.

"The implementation of this programme has also received strong cooperation from MDEC and the Malaysian Youth Council (MYC) in terms of the provision of systems and platforms as well as promote the initiative to the youth up to the grassroots level," he said in his speech during the launch of the MyGIG Programme which was broadcast live on KBS’ official Facebook page today.

The programme was co-launched by Reezal Merican and Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, and the online event was moderated by MYC president Jufitri Joha.

Reezal Merican said that KBS was also in tune with the pulse of the youth, especially the group categorised as ‘restless youth’, including those in the gig economy.

"The myGIG programme will add value to youths with the provision of appropriate training and support equipment. Registered youths will be provided guidance by KBS and MDEC to enable them to maximize the opportunities available to increase their income," he said.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin said his ministry would remain committed to assist the development of country's gig economy.

"Previously, we might have been worried about those who were self-employed, but the gig economy is a new form of work and we cannot take a hands-off approach with it.

"The gig economy is here to stay and it will grow faster, so what matters now is how we look at it and consider things such as welfare, legislation, taxation and other issues affecting gig economy workers. All of this is the Government’s responsibility," he said.

-- BERNAMA