The potential of the gig economy as a new source of economic development has been highlighted in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP). However, the development of this sector has been somewhat hindered by the absence of specific legislation that regulates and oversees gig work, resulting in gig workers not receiving the same benefits as formal workers. This study aims to develop a suitable policy and legal framework to support the growth of the gig economy in Malaysia. The analysis of existing labour policies as well as a doctrinal study was conducted to identify current legal cases involving gig workers both domestically and internationally.

A benchmark study was conducted in 15 selected countries to identify best practices in policy, governance/institutional frameworks, and legislation. A qualitative approach was used through In-Depth Interviews (IDI) and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with stakeholders such as agencies, platform providers, representatives, and gig workers themselves.