Exploring the shifting landscape of the gig economy: discovering the challenges and trends for different generations

The advancement of technology has transformed the work environment, altering the conventional office structure. Although traditional office jobs remain relevant, the rise of gig work is undeniable, fueled by the emergence of online platforms such as Grab, Foodpanda, Lalamove, Linkedin, and others. This change showcases the growing impact of digital platforms in redefining how individuals engage with work, resulting in a diverse and dynamic employment ecosystem. in his speech, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted that the Malaysian gig economy is estimated to be worth RM1.61 billion, with local platforms expected to grow from RM371.4 million in 2021 to RM650 million in 2025 (The Star, 17 July 2023). He emphasized the need to create a supportive environment for gig workers to thrive and contribute to the economy. The gig economy, which features short-term, flexible work arrangements, has primarily been linked to younger individuals such as students and recent graduates (Yusof et al, 2022). However, there is an increasing focus on the impact of gig work on older individuals. Research has revealed that gig work is not confined to any particular age group, with a significant number of self-employed independent contractors being older workers (Jeon et al., 2021). This suggests that gig work is also applicable to older individuals, including those aged 65 and above, who may engage in gig work for their former employers or in other capacities.