Risky Riding Behaviors and Safety Challenges in Malaysia’s Gig Economy: A Comprehensive Review

The rapid growth of the gig economy, particularly in Malaysia’s P-hailing sector, has brought with it significant safety challenges, as evidenced by the prevalence of risky riding behaviors among delivery riders. This review synthesizes findings from recent literature to identify key determinants of these behaviors, including individual factors such as impulsivity and emotional regulation, economic pressures tied to delivery quotas, and work environments shaped by algorithmic management. These challenges differ notably from those in other sectors of the gig economy, such as ride-hailing or freelance platforms. For instance, in ride-hailing, safety concerns often revolve around vehicle maintenance, passenger interactions, or route optimization, while freelance platforms prioritize data security and work-hour regulation. In contrast, P-hailing uniquely emphasizes high-speed navigation through dense traffic under stringent time constraints, highlighting the distinct operational pressures and safety implications within this sector. The implications of these behaviors are far-reaching, impacting public health, urban mobility, and platform ethics. High accident rates and environmental inefficiencies highlight the urgent need for intervention. To mitigate these challenges, this paper proposes a multifaceted strategy encompassing platform-level changes, such as algorithm redesign and rider incentives; policy-level reforms, including mandated rest periods and improved urban infrastructure; and technological advancements like AI-driven safety tools and drone deliveries. Despite these efforts, research gaps remain, particularly in understanding regional variations and long-term behavioral trends. Addressing these gaps through interdisciplinary and longitudinal studies is critical to fostering a safer and more sustainable gig economy. This review provides actionable insights for policymakers, gig platforms, and researchers aiming to enhance rider safety and operational efficiency.