<p>The increasing prominence of the gig economy has sparked debates between the Global North and the Global South, particularly regarding its role in fostering financial inclusion or contributing to precarisation. While gig work in developed economies is often seen as a last resort for individuals facing unemployment, it is becoming an appealing and viable employment option in developing regions. Therefore, this study examines the involvement of Malaysian youth in the gig economy, focusing on participant profiles and motivational factors. A quantitative approach was used by distributing questionnaires to 385 youth gig workers in Kuala Lumpur. The findings reveal that the majority are young males aged 19 to 30 with tertiary education, primarily working full-time in sectors such as food delivery and logistics, earning an average monthly income between RM 2001 and RM 4000 (approximately 470 USD and 940 USD). Key motivations for youth engagement in the gig economy include both internal factors, such as interest, flexibility, autonomy, and inclusivity, as well as external factors like social interactions, technological advancement, and skill diversification. These results challenge traditional perspectives from the Global North, demonstrating that Malaysian youth pursue gig work not solely out of necessity, but also as an avenue for personal growth and satisfying their interest. This study contributes to global discussions on the future of work by highlighting the importance of context-specific research and policy interventions that address both opportunities and challenges faced by youth in the gig economy.</p>