Gig economy attracting youths with flexible hours, independent environment - Nurul Izzah

SHAH ALAM - Flexible work schedules, comfortable workspaces, and independent environments are among the factors driving Malaysian youths' growing preference for gig economy jobs.

In an interview with Sinar Daily, former lawmaker Nurul Izzah Anwar shed light on the reasons behind this trend.

"Many workers prefer flexible working hours and an environment that allows for independence.

"The pandemic has undoubtedly influenced work arrangements, and this preference for more control over one's work-life balance has persisted post-pandemic," Nurul Izzah said when met at the "Inspiring Women Series Tea and Talk" last week.

Nurul Izzah highlighted that the gig economy, characterised by short-term, flexible jobs, provides a haven for those seeking autonomy and control over their work schedules.

The traditional nine-to-five model loses its appeal, the gig economy offers numerous opportunities for individuals to chart their own course and achieve a better work-life balance.

While acknowledging the potential precariousness of gig work, Nurul Izzah stressed the government's recent efforts to enhance the protection of informal workers.

"Last week, the government announced measures to improve the protection of informal workers.

"Moving forward, we encourage gig workers to continuously upskill themselves to navigate the uncertainties of the gig economy," she added.

In a significant move, the government has agreed to study a proposal for a phased expansion of social protection coverage to the working-age population of Malaysia reaching 18 years old, commencing in 2024.

This initiative aims to ensure old-age income security for gig workers and other informal laborers.

The decision was made during the 6th Meeting of the Malaysian Social Protection Council (MySPC), chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.