Transport Ministry prefers to let supply and demand set ehailing fares

PUTRAJAYA: Requests for a floor price for ehailing services are still being explored but as far as possible, the current policy of not interfering with pricing should remain, says the Transport Minister.

Anthony Loke said that while the ministry understands the request by ehailing drivers, it is also of the view that the existing dynamic pricing system should remain.

“The drivers want this (floor price) to be imposed so that each trip they make will be worth the while. But if this is implemented, consumers will face higher prices,” he said.

Loke said on the other hand, drivers should not be allowed to operate at a loss and their welfare must also be looked into.

“This is something that we need to consider and discussions are still ongoing,” he said after chairing the National Logistics Task Force meeting on Tuesday (April 11).

The minister was commenting on reports, quoting Grab Drivers Malaysia Association (GDMA) vice-president Mohd Azril Ahmad.

Mohd Azril had called for discussions between the gig industry and the government to determine a floor price for services provided by ehailing drivers and delivery riders.