Kuala Lumpur | May 7, 2025 | Special Report by Financial News Centre | Malaysia Side Hustle Platforms
As the traditional single-income model struggles to keep up with the rising cost of living, Malaysians are turning to side hustles like never before. According to recent online trends and local survey data, a growing number of Malaysians are venturing into the gig economy—and the top 10 most-used platforms have now been revealed.
Interestingly, these platforms span across e-commerce, content creation, education, and freelancing—making it easier than ever for everyday people to generate a second income. With low entry barriers, fast monetization, and tremendous growth potential, they have become the go-to choice for those chasing financial freedom. Here, from a media perspective, we unveil the 10 most popular side hustle platforms among Malaysians in 2025. If you haven’t joined yet—there’s still time!
1️⃣ Shopee Live & Shopee Affiliate: The Age of Livestreaming for Everyone
Once upon a time, you were just a shopper on Shopee. Now, you can easily become a seller! Shopee is no longer just an e-commerce platform—it has transformed into a springboard for thousands of Malaysians to kickstart their side hustle journey. Through Shopee Live, you can host real-time product showcases that directly influence viewers’ buying decisions. If you’re not comfortable appearing on camera, you can still join the Shopee Affiliate Program—just share product links on social media, blogs, or WhatsApp, and earn commissions for each successful sale. With zero startup cost, no need for inventory, and flexible hours, this is the perfect passive income model for students, employees, or stay-at-home parents. Earning money while casually scrolling your phone is no longer just a dream—it’s a reality within reach.
2️⃣ Fiverr: A Global Gateway for Your Talents | Malaysia Side Hustle Platforms
Got a skill but no stage to shine? Fiverr is your ticket to the global freelancing market. This international platform connects you directly with clients around the world—whether you specialize in graphic design, web development, video editing, copywriting, or translation. Once you set up your Fiverr profile and service offerings, you’re ready to receive international job orders. The platform offers a diverse range of projects, with stable demand, and even part-timers can earn a significant side income. Many Malaysians are already earning USD from Fiverr, using it as a stepping stone toward financial freedom. Even better, you’re free to set your own prices, deadlines, and working hours. For anyone seeking freedom, flexibility, and professional growth, Fiverr is a golden path worth exploring.
3️⃣ YouTube Shorts & Ad Revenue: The New Goldmine for Creators
Think short videos can’t pay the bills? Think again! YouTube Shorts has redefined the video creation game. You no longer need fancy equipment or long videos—just 60 seconds of creative, engaging content could land you on the trending page. Whether it’s a cooking tutorial, unboxing video, lifestyle vlog, or funny skit, many Malaysian students, housewives, and even retirees are earning thousands monthly by consistently creating Shorts. With YouTube’s ad revenue sharing program, plus opportunities for brand sponsorships, affiliate deals, and fan donations, the income streams are truly diverse. What’s more, this platform rewards creativity and consistency over popularity, meaning anyone has a chance to go viral. Welcome to the creator economy—where passion meets profit in just a minute of content.
4️⃣ TikTok Shop & TikTok Affiliate: Scroll and Earn | Malaysia Side Hustle Platforms
Scrolling TikTok isn’t a waste of time—it could be your next income stream! TikTok has evolved beyond a fun app; it’s now a powerful e-commerce and influencer platform. By joining TikTok Shop, you can host livestreams or list products for sale, while TikTok Affiliate lets you earn commissions just by sharing product links—even without running your own store. It’s especially ideal for those who love making short videos or sharing their lifestyle, beauty tips, or creative ideas. Many young Malaysians have gone from casual users to rising influencers, building income through sponsored content, product showcases, and viral challenges. With the right mix of personality, visuals, and persistence, TikTok can become your personal cash machine in no time.
5️⃣ Preply / italki: Get Paid Just to Talk | Malaysia Side Hustle Platforms
Living in a multilingual country like Malaysia is a huge advantage—why not monetize it? With platforms like Preply and italki, you can teach English, Mandarin, Malay, Japanese, Korean, or any other language you’re fluent in, all online. You’ll mostly teach international students, who often pay higher hourly rates than local standards. Best of all, you get to set your own schedule, course structure, and rates—total freedom! The classes are conducted via video calls, so there’s no need for a classroom or travel, making it super cost-effective. Many students and working adults are now teaching just a few hours a week and earning more than a typical local part-time job. In today’s global world, language is currency, and you already have what it takes.
6️⃣ Grab & inDrive: The Ultimate Flexible Side Hustles
Looking for a side hustle that starts and stops on your terms? Becoming a driver for Grab or inDrive has become a go-to option for many Malaysians seeking extra income after work. These platforms offer total flexibility—you can pick up jobs whenever you’re free, whether it’s after office hours or during weekends. As long as you own a car and a valid driver’s license, you’re good to go. On top of that, Grab and inDrive offer incentives like peak-hour bonuses, new driver rewards, and performance-based incentives, all of which help boost your earnings. Many part-time drivers in Malaysia report making as much or even more than a full-time salary if they’re consistent. For those looking to control their time and income, this is one of the most practical and lucrative gig economy options.
7️⃣ Etsy: Turn Passion into Profit, One Craft at a Time
Do you love making handmade jewelry, art, embroidery, or custom crafts? Etsy is your global stage to monetize those passions. This creative e-commerce platform is extremely popular among buyers from the U.S., U.K., and Europe, who value unique and artistic products. Many Malaysian crafters and artists have found success selling their creations here—not only earning passive income but also building a loyal customer base and personal brand. Unlike typical marketplaces, Etsy customers are willing to pay for originality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a part-time hobbyist or an aspiring full-time artisan, Etsy allows you to turn creativity into sustainable income while reaching customers across the globe.
8️⃣ Instagram Micro-Influencer Deals: Small Followers, Big Profits
Think only influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers get brand deals? Think again. Micro-influencers—those with 1,000 to 10,000 followers—are in high demand thanks to their higher engagement rates and authentic voice. Brands are increasingly partnering with content creators who have a niche and a consistent aesthetic, even if their audience is small. In Malaysia, many students, young professionals, and lifestyle enthusiasts are monetizing their Instagram presence by promoting fashion, skincare, gadgets, or local travel spots. The best part? You can earn free products, one-off payments, or even long-term collaborations. As long as you produce quality content and maintain real interactions with your followers, Instagram can be your gateway to a profitable content creation side hustle.
9️⃣ JobStreet Freelance Zone: Freedom Meets Professional Gigs
You might know JobStreet as a full-time job portal, but it has quietly expanded to include freelance and part-time gigs. The platform now lists remote and project-based jobs, including copywriting, virtual assistance, data entry, graphic design, and even digital marketing. For office workers looking to make extra money on weekends or students wanting to build experience, this is a golden opportunity. Unlike random freelance platforms, JobStreet offers employer credibility, which reduces the risk of scams or payment issues. You can complete one-time assignments or short-term contracts based on your availability and skill set. If you’re aiming to earn extra cash without committing to a long-term job, JobStreet’s freelance section is definitely worth exploring.
🔟 Upwork: High-Level Skills, Global-Level Earnings | Malaysia Side Hustle Platforms
If you have expertise in areas like software development, business consulting, UI/UX design, SEO, or professional translation, Upwork is where your skills can command top dollar. This global freelancing platform connects professionals with high-paying clients across the world. While getting approved as a freelancer may be slightly more difficult compared to other platforms, those who succeed often land contracts that pay significantly above local market rates. Many Malaysian freelancers have built long-term client relationships on Upwork, some even earning five-figure monthly incomes. It’s not just about money—Upwork allows you to work with international companies, expand your portfolio, and strengthen your personal brand. For anyone serious about building a premium freelancing career, Upwork is a must-try.
Conclusion: Build Your “Second Life” Through a Side Hustle
There’s no denying it: the side hustle culture in Malaysia is booming. Knowing the 10 most popular side hustle platforms among Malaysians means you’re already halfway toward unlocking new income streams. Each platform has its own niche, audience, and benefits—so there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a mid-career professional, or a retiree seeking purpose and pocket money, all you need is a stable internet connection and a smartphone to get started. The era of side income is here—and it’s not just an option anymore, but a pathway to a more financially secure and fulfilling life.
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