Determining the Assurance of Rights and Interests for Gig Workers in the Malaysian Ride-Hailing Industry: A Strategic Analysis for Sustained Industry Participation

This study explores the rights and interests of ride-hailing workers within Malaysia’s growing gig economy, which offers both opportunities and challenges. The gig economy, particularly in ride-hailing services, provides flexibility and increased income potential but also raises concerns regarding worker protections. This study explores the working conditions, employment status, and social protections available to ride-hailing workers in Malaysia, focusing on issues such as worker classification, fair earnings, safety measures, and the power dynamics between platform companies and workers. Additionally, the paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the stability of workers’ incomes and the overall gig economy. A significant gap in the existing literature is the lack of comprehensive analysis into the unique challenges faced by Malaysian gig workers, especially in navigating the post-pandemic landscape. The research methodology involves a quantitative approach by using questionnaires surveys with ride-hailing drivers to gather insights into their experiences. The expected findings suggest that while ride-hailing services offer flexibility, many workers still struggle with income instability, limited social protections, and an imbalance of power between workers and platform companies. The paper proposes that for sustained industry participation, policy reforms are necessary, including clearer worker classification, improved social protections, and strategies to ensure more stable incomes. By addressing these issues, the study aims to contribute to the development of a more balanced regulatory framework in Malaysia’s gig economy, promoting both innovation and the well-being of gig workers.