Gig Economy: The Future Of Working

Purpose of the Study: This article examines the merits and demerits of gig economy workers in the global context as well as in Malaysia. Gig workers are part-time workers or freelancers offering their jobs and services via platform economy. Methodology: A survey questionnaire was carried out to students and alumni of the Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia in June until September 2020 based on purposive sampling. The analysis is based on descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, interviews and literature review. Main Findings: The results suggest that most of the respondents have at one point, during the Movement Control Order period, involved in gig jobs such as dropship, courier services and food delivery. In general, the respondents perceived that gig jobs contribute to the economy. There are a few areas where the trend of freelancers in Malaysia differs from that of the global freelancers. Therefore, it is crucial for the gig workers to continue the process of upskilling and reskilling themselves to remain competitive in the industry. It is also important to understand how the gig economy has redefined workplace expectations of employees, employers and governments in different parts of the world. Novelty of the Study: Based on the findings, the level of awareness among the respondents on the issue is low. Most of the respondents are also involved in low to medium level gig jobs. Policy makers may utilize the information of how the traditional labor market is disrupted by the gig economy sector, raise awareness on the expectations of employers and protecting the rights of the workers; and devise appropriate strategies to support gig economy sector as an enabler of inclusive and sustainable growth post-pandemic period.