KUCHING: The Malaysian P-Hailing Riders Association (PENGHANTAR) has urged the government to take decisive action against e-hailing companies operating without the proper licences, citing concerns over public safety and the unfair competition faced by compliant drivers.
“This is not the first time such violations have occurred.
“For example, InDrive was previously penalised by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) but continued operating through alternative means,” the association said in a statement issued on Saturday.
PENGHANTAR commended Transport Minister, Anthony Loke Siew Fook, for addressing the issue, following his confirmation that two companies, InDrive and Maxim, were operating in breach of the Land Public Transport Act.
The association also welcomed the minister’s clarification, which has provided much-needed certainty for drivers affiliated with these platforms, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future in the industry.
Additionally, PENGHANTAR called for immediate and firm enforcement action against Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence holders who misuse their licences by allowing e-hailing services to be transferred to foreign nationals, particularly in Sabah.
“This ‘Ali Baba’ practice is not only illegal, but it also undermines local drivers’ livelihoods and puts passenger safety at risk,” the statement said.
The association called for urgent enforcement, including the revocation of PSV licences from individuals who allow unauthorised parties to operate under their names.
PENGHANTAR also expressed support for the proposed Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM), championed by Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, to oversee and regulate gig economy activities.
“We need a regulatory framework that is not solely dictated by service providers, but one that is fair, inclusive, and sustainable for all stakeholders, including drivers,” the association said in the statement.
PENGHANTAR further called for improved legal coordination to address issues such as driver welfare, platform accountability, and passenger safety, while urging enforcement agencies to act swiftly to safeguard the long-term future of Malaysia’s e-hailing and p-hailing industries.
