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App-based ridesharing services such as Uber and Grab could take a smaller cut to help drivers secure more income, said new Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) chairman Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, reported by Bernama.

“Uber takes about 25% (as service fee) from the drivers. They could do with less,” the ex-minister said, based on his experience as an Uber driver. After recently ending his tenure as senator and minister, Abdul Wahid drove for Uber for charity, and also to promote the new Proton Perdana.

“It is something I always wanted to experience. The use of technology and ridesharing. But I couldn’t do it while I was a minister,” he said at a talk titled “Transforming Nations Through Creativity and Innovation” held in conjuction with the 2016 International Conference on Blue Ocean Strategy yesterday.

Recalling his experience, Abdul Wahid said: “I drove about 11 hours and only did 17 trips netting RM210, of which RM10 went for toll charges, RM50 was taken by Uber (as service fee) and I was left with RM150.” He added that getting passengers by using technology and applications can help increase the income of ordinary taxi drivers.

Earlier this week, the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) outlined its plans to improve the Malaysian taxi industry. The Cabinet-approved Taxi Industry Transformation Programme (TITP) is geared to regulate e-hailing services (Uber/Grab), while providing existing taxis new opportunities to remain sustainable and competitive. Full story here.

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