Penghantar says Grab Malaysia’s new Group Ride function reduces car dependency, eases urban traffic and cuts travel costs.
KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the new ‘Group Ride’ function by Grab Malaysia is viewed as a strategic step in reducing public dependence on private vehicles and can help smooth urban traffic flow and reduce transportation costs.
Persatuan Penghantar P-Hailing Malaysia (Penghantar) said that the move was in line with the current needs of consumers, especially with the current global economic uncertainties.
“The public requires travel choices that are more efficient, flexible and cost saving. The approach of sharing rides such as Group Ride is seen as a mobility solution relevant to the current needs of consumers and the development of travel patterns in urban areas.
“Penghantar welcomes the Transport Ministry’s stand in encouraging the development of mobility solutions in Kuala Lumpur that are capable of reducing dependency on private car use,” the association said in a statement today.
Group Ride will also help make optimum use of the urban road capacity by reducing the number of vehicles to similar destinations, especially in urban areas and peak hours, it added.
“It will help reduce traffic pressure in hotspots such as the city centre, public transport hubs, office areas and location of big-scale events,” Penghantar said.
The approach will improve public transport integration and enhance the urban mobility ecosystem through the use of practical and efficient technology, it said as it urged the government to reconsider the qualifications for BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) additional quota for part time e-hailing drivers who are active at least four days a week and recorded a minimum of 500 kilometres’ travel a month.
The association said that a majority of part time e-hailing drivers were still facing operating cost pressures, including rising vehicle maintenance costs, e-hailing insurance and the use of fuel daily.
It urged for a more flexible and targeted approach that could help ensure the continued participation of such dirvers to strengthen support of the country’s public transportation system.
