SEGiM to discuss e-hailing fare rate, says Loke

 The transport minister says any policy changes in the e-hailing industry must be carefully studied as they could have wide-ranging implications.

Sahabat E-hailing Malaysia has been urging the authorities to regulate the e-hailing services’ pricing structure, citing potential driver exploitation under the current policy. (File pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 The Malaysian Gig Economy Commission (SEGiM) will discuss calls for a minimum or floor fare policy for the local e-hailing industry, says transport minister Loke Siew Fook.

Bernama reported Loke as saying that any policy changes in the e-hailing industry must be carefully studied as they could have wide-ranging implications on the entire service ecosystem.

“SEGiM has been set up and issues related to commissions and fare rates will be discussed at that level,” he said after meeting passengers and distributing 500 Hari Raya gift packs at KL Sentral.

Sahabat E-hailing Malaysia has been actively urging the authorities to regulate the e-hailing services’ pricing structure, citing potential driver exploitation under the current policy.

According to the group, service providers fully control the power to set e-hailing fares under the Land Public Transport (Amendment) Act 2017.

The group warned that without a minimum fare structure, drivers would continue to be exposed to exploitation and increasing economic pressure. - FMT