Ride-hailing platforms must offer non-halal order exclusion for Muslim riders

Ride-hailing platform providers in Malaysia must update their applications to include an option for Muslim riders to exclude non-halal orders, according to Datuk Seri Mohd. Sharkar Shamsudin, President of the Malaysian Gig Economy Council (MyGiG). This feature is deemed crucial for safeguarding the religious rights and beliefs of Muslim gig workers without jeopardizing their income.

Sharkar emphasized that the gig economy's growth should not solely be technological but also founded on social justice and respect for religious and cultural diversity. He stated that the algorithm systems used by platforms should not penalize Muslim riders economically for adhering to their religious principles. "Existing technology should facilitate task distribution, not place workers in a dilemma between religious demands and their livelihood," he added.

This call aligns with recent statements from the Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM), which also stressed that algorithms should not punish workers based on their religious beliefs. PPIM urged all ride-hailing platforms to introduce religion-based exclusion mechanisms within their systems, allowing Muslim riders to opt out of orders involving non-halal items like alcohol and pork.

MyGiG supports PPIM's stance and advocates for engagement with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to develop clear and practical guidelines on this issue. The aim is to ensure that the operational systems of these platforms are inclusive and respectful of the diverse religious practices of their workforce.

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The existing technology should facilitate task distribution, not place workers in a dilemma between religious demands and their livelihood.