(From left) Rajiv, Yip, Joshua and Vivian at the launch of the Gig Transformation Initiative by PeBS in partnership with Troopers.
THE Penggerak Belia Selangor (PeBS) organisation is launching the Gig Transformation Initiative with the aim of addressing youth unemployment in Petaling Jaya.
The initiative mainly targets lower-income and Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders, providing them with a platform to explore the gig economy within a protected environment. It is in partnership with Troopers, a talent solutions platform.
Incumbent Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran said supporting youths in their transition to the workforce was crucial in strengthening the local economy.
“Selangor has seen low unemployment rates of below 3% over the past year, and we must continue investing in sustainable pathways for our youth to upskill and explore their options in the working world,” he said at a press conference.
Troopers co-founder and chief executive officer Joshua Tan said with the initiative, young people could equip themselves with necessary skills no matter the gig economy area pursued.
“In Malaysia, we generally think of gig workers as those working in food delivery or ehailing but there are lots more involved in the events, hospitality and logistics sectors.
“At Troopers Academy, our certification programme provides not just employment opportunities but also training with micro-credentials related to their field.
“For example, if they are in F&B, they can learn how to improve in customer service,” said Joshua.
He said Troopers would guide participants of the initiative throughout the onboarding process.
“Our early conversion feature helps those worried about financial stability by ensuring part-timers are paid upfront or on demand, making daily wages accessible to those who need it,” said Troopers head of operations Vivian Tan.
“Through our free insurance protection programme Troopers Protect, we also provide coverage of up to RM25,000,” said Vivian.
Bukit Gasing PeBS secretary Yip Jenzen said it was targeting 30 people in the Bukit Gasing or Petaling Jaya vicinity for the launch and hoped to expand the initiative if it received good response.
“The first 30 eligible participants who join this initiative will receive a sign-up bonus of RM50 after two to three weeks of working.
“We will also check in with participants after a month to determine if they are settling well in their jobs,” he said.
For more information, visit www.troopers.com.my/aduntrp
