The Gig Economy in Indonesia: Dynamics and Challenges of Competency Development among Freelance Online Drivers in Pemalang

Abstract

The gig economy in Indonesia, particularly in the online transportation sector such as motorcycle taxi drivers, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. Digital transformation and the increasing demand for application-based services have driven a significant rise in the number of freelance workers. However, despite this growth, platform companies rarely provide formal training and competency development programs for their workers. The absence of structured training support causes workers’ skills to develop autonomously, which can lead to a competency gap between job demands, service standards, and the actual abilities possessed by freelance workers. This situation presents new challenges for human resource management (HRM) practices, especially in designing competency development strategies within a non-traditional, flexible, and project-based work model. This study aims to explore in depth the dynamics and challenges of competency development among freelance online motorcycle taxi drivers in Pemalang, while also examining how HRM practices can support competency development within the gig economy ecosystem. Employing a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews with drivers and relevant stakeholders, this research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current conditions of competency development among freelance workers. The findings of this study are expected not only to offer theoretical insights but also to deliver strategic recommendations relevant for platform companies, policymakers, and training institutions to strengthen the capacity and professionalism of freelance workers. In doing so, this research contributes to improving the quality of the workforce in an increasingly competitive and dynamic gig economy.