Navigating the Economy: An Analysis of Malaysian Gig Workers’ Perception of Work, Employment Security and Social Protection

Varatharaju Naidu, Sivakumar (2025) Navigating the Economy: An Analysis of Malaysian Gig Workers’ Perception of Work, Employment Security and Social Protection. Doctoral thesis, Asia e University.

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Abstract

This research investigates the elements and obstacles associated with the gig economy in Malaysia. While the gig economy has been established in other regions since 2008, its emergence in Malaysia is just beginning to gain traction. In comparison to European nations, the gig economy in Malaysia lacks a well-defined structure, prompting discussions regarding its future from the perspective of government officials. This qualitative study employs in-depth interviews as its primary methodology. A total of 9 stakeholders were selected as informants, including gig operators, freelancers, and government representatives. The literature review indicates that gig operators encounter numerous challenges, such as exploitation by employers, inadequate insurance options, low wages, and lack of job security. Beyond economic concerns, issues related to pricing, marketing, competition, government regulations, and logistics have also been identified. The study further reveals a diverse economic framework. Informants were asked both structured and semi-structured questions during the in depth interviews. Data gathered from interviews and thorough observations were documented and analysed using mnemonic techniques. The findings of the study are organized into thematic themes highlighting factors such as income instability, lack of social protection, occupational health and safety risks, mix awareness of policies, skeptism about government support, desirer for fair regulation and social security, income diversification, informal peers networks, self-discipline in managing hours and expenses, hope for formalization and benefit, concern over supply of workers, mixed outlook of opportunities exploitation. In summary, this research provides a qualitative insight into the gig economy and its impact on the nation's economic development. Additionally, it offers recommendations for future research, as well as theoretical and practical considerations for stakeholders addressing gig economy challenges in Malaysia.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	GIG economy, basic themes, organizational themes, global themes, economic growth
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Divisions:	School of Management
Depositing User:	Nor Aisyah Ghazali
Date Deposited:	07 May 2026 08:12
Last Modified:	07 May 2026 08:12
URI:	http://ur.aeu.edu.my/id/eprint/1492

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