The Landscape of Gig Work in Malaysia: A Systematic Review of Practice and Challenges

This systematic literature review explores the nature of current practice and the challenges of gig workers in using digital platforms in Malaysia. Seven peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2024 were analysed based on Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020). The reviewers identify key practices such as expansion, low entry barriers, flexibility, reliance on algorithm systems, and significant challenges, including algorithm control, workload, stress, and income instability. Despite the growing presence of gig workers in Malaysia, limited studies have holistically examined how these digital platforms have influenced gig workers' daily practices and experiences. This review presents the gap by synthesizing fragmented findings and provides a wide view of digital labour and practice. This study contributes to the literature by offering a contextual understanding of how digital platforms influence gig workers' natures, working patterns, and experiences, thus supporting future research and insight to improve digital platforms' functionality and user experiences.