KUALA LUMPUR: Taxi fares will be restructured to ensure cabbies are not left behind economically, says the Transport Minister.
Anthony Loke said transforming the industry is not merely about replacing old taxis but also ensuring that drivers have more opportunities to receive bookings through e-hailing platforms.
He said increased competition from other e-hailing apps had forced the government to step in to assist taxi drivers.
The government is introducing a new identity for local taxis, featuring a more modern design without the traditional taxi topper, use of the special “GET” registration series and digital taxi meters, he added.
“Taxis will have a more contemporary appearance, be more easily recognisable and inspire greater public confidence.
“The ministry will develop taxi vehicle financing packages in collaboration with the national automotive manufacturer, and provide training programmes for taxi drivers to enhance service quality and professionalism,” Loke said during the National Madani Taxi Rejuvenation programme launch yesterday.
He said taxi drivers should utilise new technology since the way people use transportation has changed significantly.
“In the past, passengers waited for taxis at taxi stands or by the roadside.
“Today, bookings are made through mobile applications,” he added.
Regarding the new Proton S70s to be owned by taxi drivers under the programme, Loke said this marks a significant step towards transforming the local taxi industry to become more modern and competitive.
He added that DRB-HICOM Group, through EON-Avis together with participating financial institutions, will provide various financing options so that taxi drivers can transition to new vehicles according to their individual needs and financial capabilities.
“Taxi drivers will be able to choose financing packages that best suit their financial circumstances, whether through hire- purchase schemes with lower daily instalments or leasing packages that also cover vehicle maintenance costs,” he revealed.
Gabungan Teksi Malaysia president Kamarudin Mohd Hussain said that under the programme, those with a public service vehicle licence and business registered under their name are eligible to apply to own a Proton S70 through selected financial institutions.
He added that older taxi drivers who want to participate in the programme but are concerned about obtaining financing can register the taxi under their children’s names while continuing to drive it themselves.
