ALOR STAR: The northern chapter of Gabungan E-hailing Malaysia (GEM) has urged the Transport Ministry to intervene in e-hailing fare pricing.
Its chairman Nor Zabidi Bahador said government intervention is necessary to prevent e-hailing companies from creating confusion and disarray in the industry, which could ultimately harm the ministry's image.
"It is important for the ministry to take driver grievances into consideration and regulate e-hailing services through standardised and harmonised floor prices.
"This would enable drivers, e-hailing companies, and users to work together towards the growth of the industry and the overall economy of the country.
"It is the responsibility of the ministry to thoroughly investigate the issue and adopt comprehensive approaches to resolve the crisis and safeguard the interests of the people," he said in a statement yesterday.
He also cited the 'Madani' slogan, which emphasises welfare, security, and justice, as a call to action for the ministry.
Nor Zabidi said while price-cutting competition among e-hailing service providers may benefit companies and users, it has led to reduced profits for drivers.
"The existence of unreasonable and irrelevant fares that do not reflect the current costs borne by drivers is causing a distortion of market fares and unfairness to drivers.
"Standardised fares will also improve e-hailing drivers' labour rights and ensure users' safety.
"Drivers can contribute regularly to the Social Security Organisation and Employees Provident Fund with better income rates, in addition to providing better services and maintaining their vehicles properly."
On April 11, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the government has yet to decide on the E-Hailing Drivers Association's request for a floor price rate of its services.
Last Sunday, the Grab Drivers Malaysia Association stressed that the e-hailing industry wanted the government to discuss with gig economy players to determine the ceiling price for the services of its drivers and riders.