Perceptions, Emotions and Motivations of Gig Workers: Insights from Malaysia

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed work arrangements and increased worldwide unemployment. Increasingly, many people have turned to gig work for income. However, low-skilled gig workers, such as food delivery personnel and ride-hailing drivers, are vulnerable to a plethora of disadvantageous working conditions, such as unstable income, lack of medical insurance, and heavy workload. Working remotely outside the workplace has also led to severe loneliness and isolation. Survey results from 100 gig-workers indicated that receiving social support and positive emotion improved job performance and satisfaction. Hence, we propose a peer-mentor supporting system. This paper primarily contributes to improving public awareness about the disadvantageous situations of gig workers. By examining the gig workers’ perceptions, emotions, and motivations, this paper contributes to integrating job satisfaction and their inner work-life system. We suggest organizations broadcast gig workers’ contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which improved their sense of responsibility and intrinsic motivation.