Local e-hailing services caused quite the commotion last week as consumers have lodged complaints regarding increasingly expensive fares for rides, especially during peak hours. In light of this, the Ministry of Transportation (MOT) has announced that it will investigate the issue and hold discussions with the service providers involved.
For context, it has recently been reported that e-hailing services have increased ride fare prices up to 400% during peak hours, which triggered discontent amongst users. They also called for government intervention to regulate fare prices.
Transport minister Wee Ka Siong told reporters on Sunday that MOT’s top management has been instructed to contact the involved companies for explanation regarding the alleged increase in fares. “An increase from RM20 to RM70 in the current situation is seen as burdensome to the people, so I think as a policymaker, we will see if any party is taking advantage to make a profit,” he said.
It is expected that results from the investigations will be provided in a day or two, which Wee says will determine what actions that are to be taken and whether more competition should be encouraged. The minister also stressed that MOT would not compromise with any company found trying to take advantage by increasing fares or companies seeking to manipulate e-hailing fares to make a profit.
