From protests to politics: How gig workers are reshaping Southeast Asia’s power balance

In the bustling streets of Southeast Asia, a new wave of activism is gaining momentum. Delivery riders and ride-hailing drivers—often seen zipping through traffic on scooters laden with food packages or ferrying passengers—are stepping off their bikes and into the political arena. What started as complaints about low pay and harsh working conditions has snowballed into organized protests that are forcing governments and tech companies to sit up and take notice.

These gig workers, powering apps like Grab and Gojek, form the backbone of the region's digital economy. In countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, they've mobilized thousands to demand better wages, insurance, and protections against exploitative algorithms. Experts point to recent strikes in Jakarta and Bangkok as turning points, where drivers halted services en masse, highlighting their indispensable role. "They're not just laborers anymore; they're a voting bloc with economic clout," says one labor analyst.

The implications run deep. Governments in the region, already grappling with youth unemployment and inequality, can't afford to alienate this demographic, which includes millions of young people. Tech giants, meanwhile, face pressure to revise commission structures and offer more stable benefits. Yet the big question remains: Can these workers sustain their momentum? Past movements have fizzled under crackdowns or co-optation, but with social media amplifying their voices and alliances forming across borders, there's hope for enduring change.

As Southeast Asia's economies digitize further, the gig workforce's rise could redefine labor rights and political participation. For now, their protests are a reminder that the people delivering your next meal hold more power than ever before. For the full story, read the original article on Channel News Asia.