Malaysia, e-hailing, carpooling, Anthony Loke, transport costs, fuel prices, subsidies, ride-sharing, passengers, government policy
SETIA ALAM: The government is open to allowing carpooling under the e-hailing sector as a way to help users cope with rising transport costs driven by higher fuel prices.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke told the reporters today that the policy would enable drivers to pick up multiple passengers heading in the same direction, allowing fares to be shared.
“We do allow e-hailing operators to implement carpool systems, if two to three passengers share a ride, they can split the cost,” he said.
He emphasised that current e-hailing trips typically involve a single passenger per vehicle, making rides more expensive.
“If one passenger bears the full cost, of course it is expensive. But if passengers share, the cost can be reduced,” he added.
However, Loke stressed that participation would remain optional and depend on passenger preference.
The move comes as e-hailing fares are expected to rise due to fuel surcharges imposed by operators under dynamic pricing models.
At the same time, the government continues to provide targeted fuel subsidies to the sector, including up to 800 litres per month for e-hailing drivers.
