How to Start a Side Hustle in Malaysia with Less Than RM100!

Starting a side hustle doesn’t need to be expensive. You don’t need a business license, fancy gear, or a degree. In Malaysia, RM100 is enough. I’ve done it. Many others have too. All it takes is a bit of effort, a working phone, and a clear goal.
Why RM100 Is Enough to Get Started
RM100 is not a lot, but it’s enough to test an idea. You’re not starting a big company. You’re just trying to earn extra cash. And that’s the key: start small, stay consistent.
5 Side Hustles You Can Start Today for Under RM100
These are options I’ve seen work. Some I’ve tried myself. Others come from friends who turned them into real money.
1. Freelance Micro Tasks
Freelancing is one of the easiest ways to earn money online. Sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and CariKerja let you sell small skills. You can offer writing, translation, or voiceovers. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be better than average.
I made my first RM70 writing a product description for a UK client. I used Google Docs and my old phone. That’s it.
Startup Cost: RM0–RM50 for mobile data or a Canva Pro subscription (if doing design).
2. Social Media Reselling
Buy low, sell high, this is exactly how the Shopee affiliate program works. Find trending products on Shopee—things like phone cases, skincare packs, or small kitchen tools. Spend RM80 on stock. Then resell on Instagram, WhatsApp groups, or TikTok Shop.
A friend of mine sells LED face masks. She started with RM90 worth of inventory and made back RM300 in a week.
Startup Cost: RM80 for initial products.
3. Digital Lottery Pools (With Caution)
This one’s tricky. Some Malaysians join small group lotteries through legal platforms. It’s low-risk if you set strict limits and play responsibly.
If you do this, use licensed sites only. Don’t play through unknown Telegram groups or dodgy websites.
Startup Cost: RM20–RM50.
4. BK8 Affiliate Program
This is my favourite. You sign up for free. You get a referral link. You share it on TikTok, Facebook, or WhatsApp. When someone joins and plays, you get a commission.
I started with RM30 on a TikTok ad. That small test brought in RM180 in affiliate earnings in 10 days.
Startup Cost: RM0–RM30 for ads or content tools.
5. Online Surveys and Paid Reviews
Sites like YouGov or Toluna pay Malaysians to answer surveys. It’s not huge money, but it adds up. Some product testing platforms also pay for short reviews.
Startup Cost: RM20 for mobile data and PayPal setup.
What You Need to Start
You don’t need much:
- Phone or laptop
- Internet connection
- Email address
- Bank or e-wallet account
You already have most of these. That means you’re ready.
Side Hustle vs. Gambling: Know the Line
A side hustle is different from gambling. Gambling involves risk. Side hustles use your time or skills to earn. Always treat side hustles like small businesses. Don’t bet your last RM100. Use it wisely.
How to Avoid Scams
Some people lose money because they fall for quick-income lies. Here are red flags:
- They ask you to pay first before giving work.
- They promise “guaranteed income.”
- There’s no website or contact info.
Stick to trusted sites. For example, BK8 affiliate program is free and transparent. No hidden terms.
My RM80 Story
I started with RM80. I paid for a Canva Pro trial and boosted one TikTok video. That video had less than 1,000 views, but it got clicks. I made RM180 in 10 days by promoting a casino signup offer using my affiliate link.
It wasn’t big money, but it proved something: RM100 is enough to test a real idea. That’s what matters.
Simple Tips to Maximize Results
- Focus on one side hustle at a time.
- Track what you spend and what you earn.
- Reinvest small profits into better tools or marketing.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to wait for a big paycheck. RM100 is enough to start. You just need to choose something and try.
Pick one idea. Spend the RM100 smartly. Track your results. If it works, repeat. If it doesn’t, try another.
That’s how side hustles grow. Not with luck. But with small, smart steps.
Want more side hustle guides for Malaysians? Let me know. I’ll keep sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how you can get started today.