KUALA LUMPUR: inDrive is refining its safety protocols, partnering with local authorities to ensure a safe e-hailing services for customers.
In its recent safety panel and workshop, the company invited the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) to address the unique safety challenges within the e-hailing industry and presenting practical safety solutions to e-hailing users.
The workshop came in response to rising safety concerns, particularly those affecting women and vulnerable communities, within Malaysia's rapidly growing e-hailing sector.
With a focus on enhancing public awareness and implementing stronger safety measures, the event brought together key stakeholders.
They include e-hailing drivers, passengers, and representatives from the local community.
"Safety is at the heart of what we do at inDrive. We constantly refine our safety protocols based on user feedback and remain committed to integrating new technologies for our safety features in our app and drivers verification process.
"Our partnerships with local authorities are vital to ensuring a rapid response in emergencies, which ultimately helps us build a safer environment for all users," said inDrive Malaysia driver acquisition specialist Azlan Anwar.
During the discussion, Gombak PDRM crimd officer Inspector Mohd Harith Hamdan said while e-hailing has made commuting more convenient, it has also introduced new safety challenges, such as incidents of harassment, theft and road safety issues.
"Ongoing collaborative efforts with e-hailing platforms has been instrumental in improving safety standards, enabling real-time incident reporting, and ensuring quicker law enforcement response times," he said.
inDrive highlighted the safety features integrated into its platform, including real-time trip sharing, an SOS Button for direct emergency contact and a comprehensive driver verification process.
Women's Aid Organisation acting executive director Nazreen Nizam addressed the specific safety concerns faced by women using e-hailing services and emphasised the importance of community education.
"Safety is a fundamental concern for many women, especially when using ride-hailing services at night or in unfamiliar areas. This workshop is an opportunity to raise awareness and create safer environments for women.
"It is essential that we maintain ongoing collaboration with e-hailing platforms to ensure that safety features are user-friendly and accessible to those who need them most," said Nazreen.
The workshop also featured live demonstrations of self-defence techniques and emergency response strategies, equipping attendees with practical skills to manage potential safety threats.