Looking for a part-time job or ways to earn money from home? You’re not alone. With the rising cost of living, many people are working multiple jobs to make ends meet. Making extra money isn’t always easy, especially if you already have a full-time job.
Just like in the USA, where a third of people use side hustles to boost their income, Malaysians also can also look for ways to make ends meet. Even an extra RM1,000 (approximate average) per month from a side hustle can make a big difference. The good news? Social commerce is booming in Malaysia, opening doors to new earning opportunities!
However, if you’ve always wanted to be your own boss, starting a side hustle could be the push you need. Whether you are a full-time employees, housewives, and students, check out our list of side income ideas in Malaysia.
#1. Be a ride-hailing driver or delivery rider.
The demand for ride-hailing services like Grab and MyCar is on the rise as people seek alternative transportation options, making part-time ride-hailing driving one of the most popular jobs in Malaysia. In fact, it tops our list.
But that’s not the only option. You can also become a rider for food delivery services like FoodPanda, GrabFood, and Lalamove, as well as traditional delivery services. As more physical shops move online and require daily delivery, the industry is booming.
One of the best things about these jobs is the flexibility they offer. You can choose how many hours you want to work, whether it’s on weekends or after your regular job.
Why not make some extra cash by giving someone a ride home after work? All you need is a car, yourself, and a good playlist to keep you going.
🐱👤 Ninja tip: Interested in becoming a Ninja Van driver or rider for part-time? All you need is a motorbike and a Malaysian Class 2 or B license. Read more HERE!
#2. Start drop shipping.
If you’ve always wanted to sell something or start your own business but didn’t know where to begin, consider starting as a drop shipper. This is a great way to gain experience and earn money!
Drop shipping is easy and convenient for anyone to start. All you need to do is promote the products you want to sell and take orders from customers. You don’t need to keep any inventory, and you can do it in your spare time. Plus, all you need is a smartphone or laptop with an internet connection to get started.
Some companies even offer training and guides for drop shippers, so be sure to do some research and find a product that you can easily sell.
#3. Sell items online.
You can choose whether to sell new things or any unused stuff in your home. Those pants or blouses that you can no longer wear? Yes, that stuff has to go for good, and you can generate money by selling any used items you have.
In Malaysia, you can even start a bundle business! Just make sure to select a reputable bundle clothing supplier. The possibilities are limitless, but you must take the first step.
Okay, now that you’ve decided what to sell, you may sign up for any online marketplace platforms such as Carousel, Mudah, Shopee, Lazada, or other social media platforms to grow your business such as Instagram or Facebook.
🐱👤 Ninja tip: Thinking of opening Cash-on-Delivery (COD) for your shipping option? Is it worth the risk? Understand the pro’s and con’s of COD and suggestions HERE!
#4. Becoming a tutor.
Do you enjoy teaching children? Then becoming a tutor might be an excellent side hustle for you. The best part is you get to do what you want while also teaching knowledge and assisting in developing young minds.
Are you concerned about the pandemic? Worry not! There are many options for you to teach online, as many people have switched to online learning. It’s safer, convenient, and it’s doable! It’s safer, more convenient, and feasible! You can also teach adult classes online if you have a teachable skill, such as a digital one.
You can start by promoting yourself as a tutor in local Facebook groups or join Tutor.com TutorMe, TakeLesson, and countless others. Word of mouth works too, and this would be the best time to say hello to your neighbours and promote your service.
#5. Become a Part-Time Personal Shopper!
Love exploring new places? Turn your next vacation into a money-making adventure!
Here’s the deal: There are tons of amazing products around the world that people crave, but can’t find back home. Think exclusive Korean skincare, limited edition photography gear, or those delicious snacks you just can’t get anywhere else.
Become a personal shopper! You’ll help people score these unique finds by buying them while you travel and bringing them back. The items you buy can be anything – from everyday essentials to high-end luxury goods. The pricier the item, the higher your profit margin, but also the bigger the risk (think damage or a buyer backing out).
How much do you charge? It’s totally up to you! Most personal shoppers charge a percentage of the item’s price (5-20% is common), but for low-cost items, a flat fee (like RM5 per item) might work better.
Pro Tip: Focus on items you already know about, it makes shopping and recommendations easier.
Ready to get started? Spread the word! Announce your trip on social media or tell your friends – they can pre-order their travel treasures from you!
#6. Freelancing
It’s worth noting that Malaysia has over four million freelancers, a number that continues to grow (Thestar, 2021). Freelancers are individuals who work for themselves on a project or task basis. If you’re interested in working as a freelancer, there are many websites available that can help you showcase your skills.
You can browse various tasks that match your abilities, such as writing, teaching, graphic design, translating, and more. For Malaysian-based websites, you can check out Freelancing.my and mytaskboss.
For international assignments and projects, you can explore websites like Freelancer.com, Upwork, and Fiverr, where you can bid on projects and showcase your skills on a global platform.
#7. Become an Airbnb Superhost (Without Owning Property)!
Malaysia’s Airbnb scene is exploding! Thousands of tourists flock to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and beyond each year. But many amazing spaces sit empty, missing out on rental income.
Why? Busy homeowners might lack the time, experience, or language skills to manage an Airbnb.
Here’s where you step in! Be an Airbnb co-host and help property owners turn their space into a cash cow.
How it works:
- You partner with an Airbnb owner.
- You choose your involvement level – from listing creation to guest management.
- You get paid 10-20% of the booking earnings, potentially more for handling more tasks or having experience.
- You can even partner with multiple owners to maximize your income.
Think of it as running an Airbnb business without owning the property! It’s a fantastic way to earn extra cash while helping others share their space with the world.
Ready to learn more? Find details on specific co-hosting tasks and Airbnb’s payout policies.
#8. Sell your homemade cooked food or baked goods.
Have you ever been told that you should sell your cooking or baked goods? That’s a telling sign that your cooking is amazing, and you should try selling it to make some extra money!
Let us guarantee you that there will always be a market for that delicious baked dish or any cuisine. We are Malaysians, and we enjoy eating!
If you love cooking or baking, you could try selling your home-cooked meals online or in your neighbourhood. Grab this opportunity to transform your pastime into a lucrative business.
🐱👤 Ninja tip: Hey, did you know that Ninja Van now can deliver food, cooking pastes, bake goods, and even frozen foods like Karipap frozen with no MOQ? Read more about our Cold Deliveries HERE!
#9. Become a Youtuber.
“Hi guys, welcome back to my channel!“
Surprisingly, becoming a YouTuber can help you earn some substantial side income. The real question is, “How does a YouTuber start to earn money from their content?”
You must first join the YouTube Partner Program and meet certain conditions:
- Have a minimum of 1,000 subscribers
- 4,000 eligible public watch hours in the previous 12 months
- Sign your name and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Create a Google AdSense account
- Obtain evaluation and approval from Youtube
You can then monetise your content, create sponsorship videos, and more! When starting a YouTube video channel, the key is to determine your niche and make high-quality content videos.
The more views your videos receive, the more likely it is that you will be compensated.
#10. Make Money with Affiliate Marketing!
Ever written a glowing review about a product you love? What if you could get paid for sharing it?
Affiliate marketing lets you do just that! It’s a way to earn money by promoting products or services you love to your audience.
Here’s the deal:
- You partner with brands like Lazada, Zalora, or even local businesses like Bikelah.
- You share a unique link (your affiliate link) on your website, social media (Instagram, Facebook, Youtube), or anywhere you have a following.
- When someone clicks your link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission!
Think of it as a commission-based recommendation system. You only promote products you genuinely believe in, building trust with your audience and earning income at the same time.
Where to find affiliate programs?
Looking to promote hot products and earn commissions? Check out these popular Malaysian affiliate programs:
- Zalora (Fashion): Earn up to 6% commission on new customers and 4% on returning ones. Sign up through Involve Asia, Optimise Media, or Accesstrade.
- Lazada (Multi-Category): This giant offers high conversion rates and commissions up to 80% on some products! Sign up directly on their website: https://www.lazada.com.my/lazada-affiliate-program/
- Sephora (Beauty): Promote a vast array of beauty brands with commission rates up to 5.6%. Join through various affiliate networks.
- Watsons (Health & Beauty): Earn commissions around 2.1% by promoting health and beauty products. Sign up through networks like Involve Asia.
- Shopee (Multi-Category): Earn up to 10% commission on sales generated through your unique Shopee affiliate link. Sign up directly on their website: https://affiliate.shopee.com.my/
Remember: These are just a few examples! Explore other brands and platforms to find the perfect fit for your audience.
#11. Be a Virtual Assistant (VA)!
Thanks to the rise of online businesses, virtual assistants (VAs) are in high demand. As a VA, you’ll be the ultimate helping hand for busy entrepreneurs and businesses. Think: managing emails, scheduling social media posts, data entry, arranging meetings, and handling customer inquiries.
The perks? Flexibility and freedom! You only need a computer, internet, and organizational skills.
Ready to start? Look for clients on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. Feeling bold? Reach out directly to businesses you admire and offer your services!
#12. Freelance Voice Acting!
Got a captivating voice and a knack for storytelling? Freelance voice acting could be your perfect side hustle!
From narrating audiobooks to voicing commercials and animations, there are tons of opportunities.
The setup is simple: a decent microphone and recording software are all you need to create your home studio. Then, start auditioning for gigs on platforms like Voices.com or even through social media.
Bonus: It’s a fun and creative way to earn extra cash!
