Excluded from stimulus package: E-hailing drivers disappointed

PETALING JAYA: E-hailing drivers are disappointed after the stimulus package worth RM20bil announced by the government to help cushion the effects of the Covid-19 outbreak did not recognise them as part of the tourism industry.

"We are disappointed because e-hailing drivers were not deemed as those depending on the tourism industry, and thus do not fall into the category that is eligible for the one-off financial aid of RM600.

"We feel that e-hailing drivers should be included because we serve tourists, as well as other passengers in the countries, just as taxi drivers do.

"The negative impact on the tourism industry is felt by many other businesses related to tourism and retail," said Malaysia E-Hailing Drivers Association president Daryl Chong in a statement on Thursday (Feb 27).

He added that if drivers were required to follow the same rules as taxi drivers, they should not have been left out.

"We urge the government to reconsider the decision and to include e-hailing drivers in the stimulus package," he said.

Earlier today, interim Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad unveiled the stimulus package to help cushion the effects of the Covid-19 outbreak.

The stimulus package has three strategies – to manage the impact of Covid-19, spur people-centric growth and encourage quality investment. - Star