- Writing Content Creation
- Software development
- Graphic design
- Copywriter
- Software engineer/web developer
- Digital marketing consultant
- Social media manager
- SEO specialist
- Media buyer
- Photographer/videographer
- Web designer
- JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. Web development is still one of the most in-demand jobs in the freelancing markets
- Web App Development
- WordPress Design & Development
- Project Management
- Cloud Computing
- Data Science & Analysis
- Administrative Assistance
- Consulting
- Photography & Videography
- Social Media Manager & Community Manager
- Virtual Assistant
Ultimate Guide to Freelancing in Malaysia in 2025
What is a Freelancer in Malaysia?
A freelancer is an independent worker in Malaysia who earns a living working for different businesses or organisations on a flexible per-job or per-task basis, typically for short-term work.
Being a freelancer in Malaysia offers a number of benefits. Firstly, because of its central location, Malaysia is an ideal base from which to expand your business as a freelancer. Malaysia enjoys a low cost of living and highly-affordable rental prices for office spaces, making it easier for freelancers to get started. The Malaysian government also provides incentives for businesses, such as tax relief and the opportunity to obtain work visas. The work-life balance in Malaysia is generally highly regarded, with a strong emphasis placed on the importance of relaxation and leisure time. The country is home to a number of leisure and recreational activities, from theme parks and spas, to visiting historical sites and museums, allowing freelancers to strike a balance between work and play. Additionally, unlike most other countries, the work week is generally shorter in Malaysia, allowing for more time to spend with family and friends. Finally, the friendly and diverse culture in Malaysia makes it easier for freelancers to connect with other entrepreneurs and build valuable relationships. The Malaysian government also provides access to a wide variety of resources and learning platforms, from educational organizations to mentorship programs, which can be highly beneficial for freelancers in growing their expertise and businesses. All these factors make Malaysia an attractive option for freelancers who want to enjoy a rewarding and comfortable lifestyle.
What are the benefits of Self-Employment in Malaysia?
Freelance jobs are typically work paid by the hour, day or month. Whereas per task work, or per project outcome is usually paid on satisfactory completion of the work task, or tasks. These tasks are commonly referred to as freelance gigs.
Self-employment in Malaysia offers many benefits to freelancers living there. One of the main benefits is that freelancers in Malaysia enjoy more job security than they would in a corporate job. Self-employment means that the freelancer can choose when and how often they want to take on new jobs and projects, reducing the risk of losing employment in an uncertain economy. Another benefit is that freelancers in Malaysia can enjoy a high level of flexibility. With self-employment, freelancers are in control of how and where they work, allowing them to work on projects that fit within their schedule and lifestyle. This also allows them to work remotely and telecommute, giving them more freedom and the ability to work from anywhere in the world. Freelancers living in Malaysia can also take advantage of the wide range of job opportunities available to them. These vary from writing and design to web development and programming, allowing freelancers to explore different industries while becoming a specialist in their chosen field. There is also a rising demand for freelancers in Malaysia, with the freelance economy in Malaysia expected to grow by 32% between 2020 and 2025. Freelancers in Malaysia can also benefit from low tax rates, as well as tax deductions for work-related expenses. The government also offers Entrepreneur Tax Relief (ETR) to freelancers in Malaysia, allowing them to reduce their tax burden. Finally, Malaysia boasts a low cost of living, with affordable housing and transportation, making it an ideal place for freelancers to make a home. Freelancers in Malaysia can also take advantage of the country’s vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to explore the expansive landscape and culture of this Southeast Asian country.
Find & Hire Freelancers in Malaysia?
The rise of freelance work has accelerated the gig economy movement, especially the online marketplaces associated with the gig economy and Future of Work.
Freelance jobs in Malaysia are on the rise and there are plenty of opportunities for talented professionals to make money freelancing. The most in-demand and highly paid freelance jobs in Malaysia include: 1. Web Development – Web development is an in-demand job in Malaysia, ranging from building websites from scratch to creating mobile apps. The usual rate for freelance web developers in Malaysia is between RM100 and RM500 per hour. 2. Graphic Design – Graphic design skills are essential for website and app creation, logos, advertisement, and more. Graphic designers in Malaysia are known to charge around RM80 to RM150 per hour. 3. Content Writing – Anyone who can write articles and stories can find work in the content writing industry. Depending on the project, content writers in Malaysia usually get paid a rate of RM70 and above per hour. 4. Video & Animation – Animators and video editors are taking the freelance industry by storm. The usual rate for animated videos in Malaysia starts from RM200 per hour. 5. Photography – Capturing beautiful moments and images is a talent that can be transformed into a lucrative career. Freelance photographers in Malaysia typically command an hourly rate of RM150 and above. 6. Digital Marketing – Digital marketing is an ever-evolving field, and Malaysia boasts close to 4 million digital marketers. The usual rate for freelance digital marketers in Malaysia ranges from RM60 to RM200 per hour. 7. AI Development – Artificial Intelligence is becoming popular in Malaysia with AI developers earning a decent hourly rate of RM200 and above. 8. Blockchain Developer – Blockchain technology is the future of the digital world and blockchain developers in Malaysia typically earn RM250 and above on an hourly basis. 9. SEO Specialist – SEO is one of the most in-demand skills in Malaysia, with SEO specialists earned for every hour worked RM150 to RM500. 10. Social Media Management – The prevalence of social media has made it a booming sector for freelancers. Social media managers in Malaysia generally make an hourly rate of RM200 and above.
What are popular Freelancing roles in Malaysia?
Marketing
- Publicist
- Digital Marketer
- Social Media Marketer
- Product Manager
- Marketing Strategist
- SEO Expert
- Advertising Executive
- Communications Expert
- Media Executive
- Journalist
Information Technology
- Ecommerce Expert
- Web Designer
- Web Developer
- Software Engineer
- IT Consultant
- Cyber Security Consultant
- Cloud Architect
- Big Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Project Manager
Creative
- Content Creator
- Copywriter
- Writer
- Creative Director
- Art Director
- Animator
- Video Producer
- Graphic Designer
- UI/UX Designer
- Photographer
Wondering what the process is to start freelancing in Malaysia?
Identify and embrace your niche
Identify your current skillset and where your passion lies. Most freelancers are experienced professionals with numerous years of experience working professionally in a permanent position but looking to become self-employed and a master of their own destiny.
Focus on your freelance skills strengths and weaknesses
Research the capabilities expected of a freelancer within your area of expertise and identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you with your personal development plan and billable pay rate.
Ensure you have all the appropriate equipment
Common checklist for freelancers include: Home Office: Comfortable office desk & chair. Printer/scanner. Mobile devices. Fast & reliable internet. Cloud products for storage. Software products to help you complete your work
Create A Portfolio
Build a portfolio of your work you can showcase to prospective clients. This can be publicly viewable on the internet, or accessible on permission, depending on the nature of your work.
Getting Started - Finding the best Jobs & local or remote Clients in Malaysian
Getting started begins with finding new clients. How can this be achieved? Where can freelancers find new customers? Start by going to dedicated meetups. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Network, network, network! Update your promote profile on gigexchange.com. Use online freelancing platforms and apply for freelancing jobs and freelance gigs.
Try Freelancing Part-Time or as a Side Hustle
If you are just starting out and testing the water for freelancing. Then working part-time of as a side hustle is perfect for understanding whether you enjoy freelancing. What kind of rate to charge and how successful you are. Freelancing on the side can be completed on evenings and weekends, outside of your primary job and it will also help bring in some extra income too.
Find The Right Freelance Platform in Malaysia
With so many freelancer websites and freelancing apps to choose from, we have listed the top 5 Freelance Platforms in Malaysia below:
Top 5 Freelance Platforms in Malaysia
Upwork
- Type: Marketing, Software, Design
- Pros: Secure pay, Large market share
- Cons: Lengthy selection process, High service fees (client & worker)
Upwork is the largest freelancing website that connects clients and freelancers all across the world.
The web app provides a large range of skills and categories, from web and software development to marketing and accounting.
Clients and freelancers have multiple ways to connect – clients can choose to advertise a job and hire talent or buy a predefined service from the project catalog.
Whereas freelancers can access the job board and offer a service to sell.
To get started as a freelancer on Upwork, first create a profile.
Upwork has a sliding commission scale, rewarding the more you work, the less money you pay. The commission fee starts from 20% for the first bill of $500 and gradually reduces as you receive more money.
Payment withdrawal, includes direct transfer, PayPal, and wire transfer.
Freelancer
- Type: Language, Tech, Marketing
- Pros: Progress tracker, Live chat, Good customer support
- Cons: Bad UI/UX, Spam freelancers, Fake clients
Freelancer.com is one of the original freelance websites where service provider professionals and international organisations unite to complete various projects. Registering as a freelancer requires you to fill out a short form. Provide detailed information, including your skills, educational background, and work experience.
Freelancers can apply for projects to gain work. In addition to projects, there are also contests, such as visual or design work. Freelancers can gain from these contests by earning money along with reviews on their profiles.
Every freelancer will receive full payment after completing a job. However, the platform takes 10% of your total earnings for contests and fixed projects. Payment is via PayPal or wire transfer for withdrawal.
Fiverr
- Type: Marketing, Web development, Social media
- Pros: Popular site with large number of customers, Free registration
- Cons: High commission charge, Long payment process
Fiverr is a freelance platform connecting freelancers and business owners requiring expert on demand talent for services in various digital projects, including website design, copywriting, and sales lead generation.
This website provides a slick process for freelancers and business owners to collaborate. Sellers can sign up for free, list their gigs, and set their own prices. Whereas, buyers can easily browse through different work categories to purchase. Whenever a buyer purchases a gig, the app immediately charges their account and places the money on hold. The platform pay proicess will then take a commission fee and send freelancers 80% of the offered price.
Depending on each freelancer’s seller level, it can take up to 14 days to withdraw their earnings. There are multiple options to withdraw the payments, such as debit card, PayPal, and wire transfer.
Guru
- Type: Marketing, Tech, Admin
- Pros: Secure payment, Customized job listings, Free membership
- Cons: Potential fake clients
Guru is an international freelancer marketplace. Companies can hire professionals with various skills, such as software engineers, web designers, and digital marketing freelancers. This freelance platform is easy to browse freelance job listings and submit applications to clients. Start by signing up and building your freelance profile. The app will provide job recommendations based on your defined skills and experience.
Freelancers can bid for different projects and provide a fixed price for each. Freelancers can receive pay in various manners, including PayPal and wire transfer. More importantly, the site ensures freelancers get paid timely with SafePay protection.Every freelancer that signs up on this freelance website gets a free basic membership. This can be upgraded to paid membership plans with more features to benefit the freelancer.
gigexchange
- Type: Creative, Media, Technology, Marketing, Software, Security
- Pros: Secure pay, Push notifications, Live private chat, Free membership, Low commission, Identity verified freelancers only
- Cons: Still in growth phase
Gigexchange is a Global Future of Work marketplace for freelancers to connect with businesses for work. Gigexchange allows freelancers to complete freelance gigs (specific work tasks and outcomes - with payment after the work is completed), freelance jobs (time based work - typically short term contracts which are arranged off platform). Freelancers may also volunteer their valuable services free of charge via the Volunteer service.
Registration is quick and simple, completing a skills and experience fields for its AI/ML function. Registering for Freelance Gigs via the Gig Worker section requires Identity verification prior. This is quick and simple, providing a few ID documents to become identity validated, building trust in the marketplace.
The commission rates for freelance gigs is the lowest of all freelance apps, at just 5%. For freelance jobs there is no commission for finding work.
There are no subscription fees or limits on the number of applications for jobs or gigs.
Gigexchange operates across 39 countries, allowing freelancers to connect with local businesses and remote, or work from home freelance work.
The platform works as a progressive web app (PWA) which means both buyers and sellers can use the standard website or mobile app to complete work services.
The platform supports VISA & Mastercard debit & credit cards. Payment withdrawal for freelancers is via Stripe and typically takes 5-14 days from gig completion.
Building your personal Brand & Online Platform Reputation
As you gain more customers, your reputation will grow. This will allow you to acquire new customers by both word of mouth referrals and via freelance platform ratings and testimonials.
Charge the Right Price & Rates $$$$$$
As your reputation and experience/expertise develops, so will your pricings. Periodically review your rates to ensure they are both fair and at market rate internationally and in Malaysia
Managing multiple freelance jobs and clients
A key skill being a freelancer is managing and juggling multiple clients and projects simultaneously, along with maintaining a pipeline of new work when your schedule permits. This requires great personal organization skills and planning.
Deliver Beyond Expectations
The first rule of conducting great work is understanding the requirements and outcomes expected of you. The second rule is completing over and beyond this. This will result in repeat work and referrals, allowing you to grow your freelance business effectively.
Stay on top of the admin
Self-employment involves much more administrative work than being a permanent employee. There are various tasks requiring constant attention throughout the months and years. The major administrative work includes:
Managing Freelancing Financials
We all love making money, but we also need to stay on top of our revenue, accounting and taxes. Some great online products to help with this include:
Never Forget to Pay your Taxes
Keeping the taxman happy is critical to running a successful business. Stash away 30-40%+ of each paycheck for taxes. Pay quarterly taxes. Save every receipt and research applicable expenses. Hire an accountant or bookkeeper if this is not your strength.
Personal Development
Staying an expert in your specialisation is key to your success as a freelancer in Malaysia. Allocating time and resources to continuously improve and upskill is essential.
Freelancers use various tools and online training platform to do so, such as:
Online training courses
Writing
- Copywriting for Creatives
- 10x Emails
- ConversionXL
- Copyhackers’ Copy School
- HubSpot’s Content Marketing Certification
Design
Marketing
Business Administration
Freelancing Information
Software & Data Tools
Join freelance communities
Join as many Social Media groups for freelancers in Malaysia to help you build your network.
Join local Slack groups of interest to you. Sign up to meetup.com and search for freelance meetups in Malaysia and become an active member.
How to Be a Successful Freelancer
Start with understanding why you want to freelance? Then use our guide to ensure you give yourself the best chance of creating a successful freelance career.
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com
Ask yourself: Is Freelancing for Me?
If you dont try it, you will perhaps never know. But plan and prepare as much as possible prior to jumping in, to ensure you understand the risks and rewards of freelancing in Malaysia.
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com
What are the Pros and Cons of Freelancing?
Advantages of freelancing
- You’re your own boss
- You set your own rate and select which freelance gigs and jobs you work
- You have a better work-life balance by working when and where you want
- You could pay less in taxes if managed well
Disadvantages of Freelancing
- You’re not your own boss
- You have to manage your own benefits, taxes, and accounting
- If you don’t work, you don’t make money. No sick leave in freelancing
- No job security
Find the Best Freelance Jobs in Malaysian in 2025
Search for the Best Freelance Jobs Portals in in Malaysia to begin and grow your freelance career.
Best Malaysia Job Website Name
Malaysia Job Board Pricing
Paid. Email sales for prices
RM 150.00
FREE Job Advertising in Malaysia
Paid. Email sales for prices
Email sales for prices
Which Cities & Regions can I find Freelance Jobs & Freelance Gigs in Malaysia?
Need to find a freelance job near me in in Malaysia? Check out local freelance jobs near you.
Additional Freelance Information in Malaysia
We have collated some additional useful Freelancing information available online in 2025 so you can gain extra knowledge, resources and potential new Freelancing job opportunities, or understand how Freelance Job Seeking can work for you.
Featured Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
What are popular freelance jobs in 2022
How is remote work and work from home/work from anywhere benefiting freelancers?
Freelancers are independent contractors who either work on a retainer or on a project-by-project basis. Freelancers set their own work hours, decide where they want to perform their tasks, and usually only provide a service or product for a predetermined fee — with no company benefits or services included. Remote working, or working from home (or working from anywhere) has simply increased the work opportunities for both businesses hire remote talent and freelancers having an increased pool of clients. Freelancers can conduct all work remotely, without the need for being near the business headquarters, or having to go into the office.
Where can I find freelance work as a side hustle?
- Upwork
- gigexchange
- Taskrabbit
- Wonolo
- Upshift
- Jobble
- Fiverr
Is freelancing worth it?
Absolutely Yes! If you are a highly skilled individual who has a passion for the work you complete. Are great at what you do. Enjoy diverse and busy work environments. Love juggling multiple tasks and projects at once. Enjoy meeting new people and being paid for your value. Enjoys working remote and loves being your own boss. Then yes, freelancing is worth it!
What is the difference between a freelancer and a digital nomad?
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed experts. The main difference is that digital nomads are freelancers who love to work and travel with no set ‘home’. Digital nomads are individuals who are location transient but use modern technologies to work remotely whilst living a nomadic lifestyle.
How is the gig economy impacting freelancers?
Businesses benefit from the gig economy by gaining access to highly skilled on-demand talent to complete defined project work, or set tasks. Gig workers, also known as contingent or contract workers or freelancers, benefit from the flexibility and access to new opportunities that might not have been available before. Platforms such as gigexchange.com are providing local and remote freelance gigs and freelance jobs to freelancers globally.
What are the benefits of hiring freelancers
- Flexibility and Specialised Expertise. On-demand talent is now available to businesses for specific work tasks (freelance gigs) or specialised freelance jobs (short contracts) that cant be fulfilled by inhouse employees in a flexible manner
- Reduced Risk. Hiring freelancers on a short term basis reduces the risks on bad hires through the recruitment process
- Savings. Pay for talent when only you need it.
- High Quality of Work. Freelancers are experts in their trade. Hire with confidence when using online platforms by hiring trusted and reputable experts only.
- Worldwide Reach. Remote working means gain access to talent working from anywhere in the world
What is the difference between a freelancer and a contractor?
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed workers. Freelancers are more typically associated with creative and media industries. Contractors are terms used to describe independent employees in I.T. or civil construction.
What is the difference between a freelancer and an employee?
Freelancers are self-employed individuals who are employed by businesses on short-term projects, or dedicated tasks to complete. They receive no employee benefits from their clients and pay and manage their own taxes. Freelancers are their own boss, setting their own hours and work lifestyle. They typically juggle multiple clients simultaneously.
Freelancers determine their own rates, which may be hourly or on a per-project basis. They typically work remotely, though may occasionally meet with clients in person or visit the office for meetings.
Employees permanently work for a single employer and are paid fixed remuneration in the form of an annual salary.
The employer provides work benefits (such as holiday time, sick leave, healthcare, and pension plans) and is also responsible for managing their taxes and contributions. Employees typically have a contract that defines their expected work hours, role, and the terms of their employment. Since they are a permanent part of the company, employees are usually required to serve a notice period before leaving the company. They also enjoy more job security than freelancers or contractors. Businesses can give notice to freelancers much quicker and easier than permanent employees.
Are self-employed freelancers the Future of Work?
Freelancing and self-employment has been trending up for many years. As of 2022, the freelancing industry is growing three times faster than the traditional workforce. And statistics predict by 2027, the majority of the US workforce will be freelancing.
As many as 64 percent of freelancers find their work online on platforms such as gigexchange.com, and most now no longer require a freelancer to be physically on site. For remote based freelancers and digital nomads, this means their location is no longer an inhibitor to work. The digital economy is fueling the freelancing industry growth.
How to on-board remote freelancers?
- Have an on-boarding process & checklist pre-defined
- Ensure all appropriate access to software tools and products and user accounts are setup prior to day 1
- Welcome employees personally immediately on day 1 via an approved business digital communications channel such as teams or slack
- Use communications technology to build a culture of immediacy, collaboration and camaraderie
- Set clear expectations before day one: pre-boarding
- Allocate a remote buddy or mentor
- Regularly follow up and pulse check with remote freelancer to ensure they are happy, engaged, understand their roles & responsibilities and not blocked from working
Whats the difference between a freelance job and freelance gig?
A freelance job is a standard work contract for a set period of time. Typically 3-6 months. These jobs are paid by the hourly or daily rate. Freelancers usually invoice on a weekly or monthly basis for standard freelance jobs.
Freelance gigs are work assignments with explicit scope of works and expected outcomes. Freelance gigs are typically paid out once the work has been completed to the customers satisfaction.
Is the Future of Work freelancing?
The world of work is slowly drifting away from long term (or permanent) work engagements. Moving to a more on-demand model, where businesses onboard specialised experts for specific tasks or projects. Freelancers are well placed to take advantage of the movement and experienced in the risks and benefits of freelance work and self employment.
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