Turning Crisis into Opportunity in the Gig Economy - Acceptance of e-Hailing Food Delivery Applications in Malaysia

Abstract

The negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has given people the opportunity to move forward. The increasing number of app-based online ordering systems creates significant job opportunities for freelancers and the jobless impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The scenario has brought about a Gig-economy in the Malaysian context. This study aims to examine and explain consumers’ behavioural usage of e-hailing food delivery applications in Malaysia using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). One hundred respondents completed the structured survey questionnaires. The study found that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use positively affect the behavioural intention to use e-hailing food delivery applications. Besides, behavioural intention also positively affects actual usage. The study suggests that the government or policymakers could give more attention to this fast-growing industry.

The Impact Working Environment on Health Problem among E-Hailing Drivers in Johor Bahru, Malaysia from Ergonomic Perspective during Pandemic COVID-19

“…COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as an unparalleled worldwide disaster, resulting in significant transformations in everyday routines and revealing the weaknesses and resilience of many professional cohorts. The community of e-hailing drivers in Malaysia, represents a notable group that has seen major impacts while persistently delivering crucial services (Antara et al, 2022;Razali & Daniel, 2022). During the global implementation of lockdowns, social distancing protocols, and health precautions, these drivers continued to fulfil their duties in the forefront, guaranteeing crucial mobility for individuals requiring assistance (Antara et al, 2022;Morshed et al, 2021;Razali & Daniel, 2022).…”

“…The community of e-hailing drivers in Malaysia, represents a notable group that has seen major impacts while persistently delivering crucial services (Antara et al, 2022;Razali & Daniel, 2022). During the global implementation of lockdowns, social distancing protocols, and health precautions, these drivers continued to fulfil their duties in the forefront, guaranteeing crucial mobility for individuals requiring assistance (Antara et al, 2022;Morshed et al, 2021;Razali & Daniel, 2022). E-hailing drivers operating in Malaysia have significantly contributed to upholding the mobility of the city's inhabitants, guaranteeing their access to essential services, and bolstering the local economy (Antara et al, 2022;Morshed et al, 2021;Razali & Daniel, 2022).…”

“…During the global implementation of lockdowns, social distancing protocols, and health precautions, these drivers continued to fulfil their duties in the forefront, guaranteeing crucial mobility for individuals requiring assistance (Antara et al, 2022;Morshed et al, 2021;Razali & Daniel, 2022). E-hailing drivers operating in Malaysia have significantly contributed to upholding the mobility of the city's inhabitants, guaranteeing their access to essential services, and bolstering the local economy (Antara et al, 2022;Morshed et al, 2021;Razali & Daniel, 2022). However, their endeavours have not been devoid of cost, as they have encountered distinctive obstacles in adjusting to the exigencies imposed by the pandemic.…”