E-hailing fare policy to be discussed by SEGiM – Loke

Following concerns raised by a ride-hailing driver organisation over the absence of a minimum fare policy in the industry, transport minister Anthony Loke said that the matter would be discussed by the Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM).

He said that any policy changes need to be examined as they would have wide-ranging implications on the entire eco-system, and the commission serves as the appropriate platform to look into the issue, The Star reports.

“Any policy changes will have implications. In any case, the commission has already been established. As such, matters concerning commissions, including fares and related issues, will be discussed at the SEGiM level in due course,” he said.

Earlier this week, the Sahabat E-hailing Malaysia organisation urged authorities to regulate the pricing structure of ride-hailing services, saying current laws allow companies to set fares independently.

According to the group, the power to set e-hailing fares is fully given to service providers under the Land Public Transport (Amendment) Act 2017 (Act A1552). It warned that without a minimum fare structure, drivers would continue to be exposed to exploitation and increasing economic pressure.

Last year, the ministry said it had conducted a study to determine whether ride-hailing fares should be regulated. The study was based on the findings and recommendations of the land public transport strategic plan for the Klang Valley.

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