Go-Jek enters Singapore ride-hailing market in challenge to Grab

SINGAPORE: Indonesia’s Go-Jek said it will roll out a beta version of its ride-hailing app in Singapore today, moving into direct competition with arch-rival Grab on its home turf.

Go-Jek’s beta app will be available on Android and Apple devices to a limited number of consumers, the company said in a statement Thursday. The startup asked for feedback from users during its early days so that it can improve service quality.

“We are launching in beta now while we fine-tune our service,” said Go-Jek President Andre Soelistyo in a statement ahead of a briefing in the city-state.

Many consumers and drivers have looked forward to Go-Jek’s entry after Grab cemented its grip on the city-state by agreeing in March to acquire the Southeast Asian business of Uber Technologies Inc., eliminating its primary competition in the region. Uber’s departure was followed by rising complaints from users about higher prices, delays and lapses in customer service. Drivers expressed frustration about reduced income.

“For Singapore, another ride-hailing competitor cannot come soon enough,” said Benjamin Roberts, a Singapore resident unhappy with Grab’s cancellations and surcharges. - Bloomberg