Kuala lumpur:<Text>

The Minister of Human Resources, Datuk Seri R Ramanan, announced that the government is in the process of finalising a funding mechanism aimed at providing skills training and social protection for e-hailing and p-hailing gig workers. This initiative is expected to be revealed soon.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this development aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's 2026 New Year Address, which emphasized the importance of converting national economic growth into tangible benefits for the populace, particularly for workers. Ramanan highlighted that the additional RM100 million allocation for this purpose, via the Skills Development Fund Corporation, underscores the MADANI Government's attention to evolving economic conditions.

Ramanan stated that this measure acknowledges the crucial role of the gig sector, describing it as a key component of daily mobility and the broader economy. Furthermore, he mentioned that the Min istry of Human Resources (KESUMA) endorses the temporary relaxation of procedures related to the CP500 Instalment Payment Order for genuine income declaration errors, while reiterating that tax compliance is a universal obligation.

He stressed that maintaining tax responsibilities is essential for funding and enhancing government aid programs such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), both of which aim to improve public welfare. Ramanan also confirmed the Ministry's dedication to executing other welfare initiatives outlined in the Prime Minister's address.

These initiatives include the distribution of SARA starting February 9, the first-phase payment of STR 2026 commencing January 20, funds for upgrading educational facilities, and a reduction in the service tax rate to six percent. He assured that KESUMA would uphold the MADANI Government's mandate by ensuring that each initiative positively impacts workers, their families, and the broader publi c.

Ramanan concluded by affirming the ministry's ongoing commitment to advancing policies based on welfare, inclusivity, and social justice, with the aim of ensuring that no one is excluded from the nation's progress.