“Motivated, but Vulnerable”: Exploring Malaysian youth participation in the gig economy

Norhafiza Mohd Hed; Mohd Helmi Abu Yahya

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI38.7633

Authors

Norhafiza Mohd Hed Department of Malaysian Studies, Sultan Idris Education University, Malaysia & Southeast Asia Program, Cornell University, United States.
Mohd Helmi Abu Yahya Prime Minister Department (Federal Territories), Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI38.7633

Keywords:

Gig Economy, Youth, Participation, Malaysia

Abstract

This study examines the demographic characteristics and motivations of Malaysian youth engaged in the gig economy. Drawing on a quantitative survey of 385 gig workers in Kuala Lumpur, findings show that most participants are men aged 19–30 with tertiary education, working primarily full-time in food delivery and logistics, and earning RM2001–4000 monthly. They are motivated by flexibility, autonomy, and low entry barriers, reinforced by technological change and shifting labor trends. Despite these drivers, they remain vulnerable to unstable income and limited protections. The study calls for comprehensive policies to safeguard gig workers and sustain this growing labor sector.

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