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Hello reader,
I recently saw a meme on X (formerly Twitter) that got a good chuckle out of me. Amid all the complaints about the rising cost of living and tough economy, the meme pokes fun at how many people keep using food delivery services even though they add quite a bit to one’s expenses.
OK, I’ll admit it: I’m one of those people. After all, ordering food from the coffee shop opposite my house can get a little boring sometimes even if the food is great.
However, there’s one situation where I feel it’s worth spending extra on food delivery, and that’s when it’s raining. My gratitude goes to the delivery workers who brave bad weather just to do their jobs. Otherwise, I’d probably miss my meal and starve because I don’t want to get wet and dirty and ugh… uncomfortable.
That’s why it’s a good thing that delivery riders and other gig workers in Singapore could get more protection in their jobs, thanks to a new bill that’s being introduced in parliament. Lawmakers are set to debate on the Platform Workers Bill soon, so let’s see how it could benefit these workers.
Today we look at:
- How the Platform Workers Bill’s could affect gig workers
- PropertyGuru’s delisting after being acquired
- Other newsy highlights such as Ant Group’s latest acquisition discussions and Ola Electric’s soaring valuation
Premium summary
Good for gigs
Image credit: Timmy Loen
The new bill is aimed at helping Singapore’s gig workers, but companies that employ them may be wary of the associated additions to their expenses. Still, this is a welcome move that can level the playing field.
- Plugging the holes: The Employment Act provides legal protections, but it doesn’t cover the self-employed or independent contractors, which includes gig workers.
- Three-pronged approach: Under the proposed Platform Workers Bill, gig workers will get workplace injury compensation, greater levels of contributions to the Central Provident Fund savings scheme, and formal representation.
- The other side of the coin: Naturally, this measure would lead to an increase in manpower costs for operators. Firms will also have to expend more time and resources to engage new stakeholders such as platform worker associations.
Read more: SG gig worker bill: Higher costs, stronger incumbents?
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