Between the gig economy and online resellers, the growing community of budding entrepreneurs has forever changed the landscape and definition of “work” for Malaysians.
The ability to become self-employed almost instantaneously via an app is a paradigm shift that cannot be understated or ignored. From e-hailing drivers and delivery services to online marketplaces, there are opportunities aplenty for those who have the means to participate.
Here are five easy side hustles anyone could start working on this weekend. All you need is a little bit of planning and your phone to spread the word.
1. Sell pre-loved items
Many households have excess items that are simply lying around or stored away. Refurbishing, upcycling, or repurposing them for resale can give these a new life and offer instant cash in return.
Clothing, shoes, or electronics collecting dust… get the word out about an in-person garage sale, or turn to easy-to-use platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Carousell to post and sell items.
2. Offer light labour services
Consider giving a helping hand to those who might require it: children, seniors, the disabled, or anyone who may need a little extra help.
Car washing, cleaning or organising homes, or even assembling furniture could prove therapeutic and lucrative.
If you prefer animals to humans, pet sitting or dog walking would provide a pleasant alternative that allows you to get some exercise at the same time.
3. Rent out some stuff
Time to put those dusty power tools and DIY equipment to good use. From power washers and cordless drills to ladders and tool kits, the infrequent use of these items means someone out there might want to rent them.
Specialty clothing or costumes, and even extra furniture could meet the temporary needs of someone throwing an event.
Make some side cash by renting out gadgets such as cellphones, tablets, and laptops. These could help someone in an emergency, or who might have had theirs go missing or stolen.
4. Share your skills
Everyone has a talent or ability that’s a bit better than someone else’s. For those who excel academically or have a unique skill set such as programming or coding, tutoring is a great way to earn some side income.
Those with the know-how could teach others to cook a popular dish, paint with watercolours, or play a musical instrument.
5. Fill some bellies
With eating essentially a national pastime, one’s hidden culinary talents might have gone undiscovered until now. Preparing meals for busy individuals or curating a vegan meal plan for the health-conscious are just two ways to get started.
Share a secret family recipe, or create the next dessert portmanteau (cronuts, anyone?) to sate the appetite of the foodie community.
And with the numerous delivery and food apps available, building and promoting a gastronomic side hustle is within anyone’s reach.
Reg Ching is a walking quadriplegic (OKU), digital nomad, business consultant, medical cannabis advocate, and cryptocurrency enthusiast. Follow his journey at regching.com.