[Malaysia] Recognition for sign language interpreters in Gig Worker Bill

In Malaysia, the inclusion of sign language interpreters, translators and transcribers in the forthcoming Gig Worker Bill has been hailed as a landmark recognition of their professional status and contribution to society, Scoop reports.

The Malaysian Sign Language Interpreters and Translators National Organisation (JUPEBIM) - representing more than 100 members, including both hearing and deaf interpreters - called the government’s move “timely and progressive”.

In a statement, JUPEBIM reportedly said, “This recognition is not only long overdue, but also a powerful affirmation of the professional status and critical role of Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) interpreters in our society.” 

For years, the work of sign language interpreters in the country has often been perceived as charitable rather than professional. The organisation said such a mindset undermined the training, ethical standards and skill required to bridge the communication gap between Deaf and hearing communities.

“The Gig Worker Bill marks a paradigm shift, recognising interpreters not as volunteers but as skilled professionals contributing meaningfully to national development,” it said.

The draft legislation, due to be tabled in Parliament by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, seeks to protect gig workers’ rights, clarify contracting obligations, and establish service agreements. 

In addition, it reportedly proposes dispute resolution mechanisms, a Gig Workers Tribunal Consultative Council, and safeguards for health, safety and social security.

Source: Scoop

(Quotes via original reporting)

In Malaysia, the inclusion of sign language interpreters, translators and transcribers in the forthcoming Gig Worker Bill has been hailed as a landmark recognition of their professional status and contribution to society, Scoop reports.

The Malaysian Sign Language Interpreters and Translators National Organisation (JUPEBIM) - representing more than 100 members, including both hearing and deaf interpreters - called the government’s move “timely and progressive”.

In a statement, JUPEBIM reportedly said, “This recognition is not only long overdue, but also a powerful affirmation of the professional status and critical role of Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) interpreters in our society.” 

For years, the work of sign language interpreters in the country has often been perceived as charitable rather than professional. The organisation said such a mindset undermined the training, ethical standards and skill required to bridge the communication gap between Deaf and hearing communities.

“The Gig Worker Bill marks a paradigm shift, recognising interpreters not as volunteers but as skilled professionals contributing meaningfully to national development,” it said.

The draft legislation, due to be tabled in Parliament by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, seeks to protect gig workers’ rights, clarify contracting obligations, and establish service agreements. 

In addition, it reportedly proposes dispute resolution mechanisms, a Gig Workers Tribunal Consultative Council, and safeguards for health, safety and social security.

Source: Scoop

(Quotes via original reporting)