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A MALAYSIAN e-hailing drivers’ group has warned that the absence of a minimum fare policy leaves drivers vulnerable to exploitation, after authorities declined to regulate the pricing structure of ride-hailing services.
Sahabat E-hailing Malaysia said the continued refusal by the authorities to introduce a floor price for fares had raised serious concerns about the welfare of drivers who remain under growing economic pressure.
In a statement, the group said current legislation allows ride-hailing companies to determine fares independently, creating an imbalance that could disadvantage drivers while leaving passengers exposed to unclear pricing.
“Based on provisions under the Land Public Transport (Amendment) Act 2017 (Act A1552), the authority to determine e-hailing fares is fully granted to the service providers.
“Drivers are exposed to the risk of exploitation through unreasonable payment rates, while consumers face a pricing structure that lacks transparency and can be easily manipulated,” the statement said.
The organisation said it was widely known that the Ministry of Transport had taken the position of not intervening in fare regulation, but questioned whether the same stance had been fully endorsed by the prime minister and the Cabinet.
It said there was uncertainty over whether the policy had been fully explained and discussed at the highest level of government before being adopted.
“Major national policies should be brought forward for consideration and approval by the Cabinet in line with the 2021 Directive of the Cabinet Secretary.
“Therefore, has this policy of not regulating e-hailing fares received the full consent of the Cabinet, even though its implications directly affect the well-being of the people?
“Drivers are forced to work long hours without sufficient rest, thereby increasing the risk of accidents and higher insurance premiums.” it said. - March 17, 2026
