Swift action by Transport Minister addresses public concerns over rising e-hailing fares & public rail connectivity & safety

As public concern grows over the soaring fares of e-hailing rides, acknowledgement must be accorded to the Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong for engaging with e-hailing company representatives, followed up with a stern warning that the Transport Ministry (MOT) would not hesitate to suspend or revoke the licences of e-hailing companies that violate the 200% surcharge limit imposed by the government.

Clearly, Dr Wee is cognisant and empathises with public distress over unrequited additional expenses and when passengers are overcharged. Moreover, it indicates that MoT is not dicing with its words but is serious that it will take the afore-mentioned action should any opportunist seek to exploit a passenger’s need for a transport service provider which complements the public transport system.

It must be emphasised that e-hailing operators must take the concerted efforts to improve their services, lower their fares and refrain from arbitrarily raising their fares.
 
Dr Wee also stressed that he would not want to be put in a situation where he would be forced to regulate the e-hailing industry, as this would result in disturbing the gig economy. In safeguarding the livelihoods of gig workers, Dr Wee certainly does not want their welfare to be jeopardised.

Improvements to public rail networks

Meanwhile, further developments to the public rail system  are expected following a few more announcements by Dr Wee yesterday ie 19 new trains in phases by the end of 2023 for the Kelana Jaya LRT line, upgrading exercise for the 28 four-car train model and implementing the 23 recommendations that would improve the passenger safety and reliability of the Kelana Jaya LRT line.

MoT recognises the importance of public transport. To expand convenience for the public, MoT is always performing its best to improve connectivity and shorten travel time. When more commuters utilise public rail network facilities, passenger vehicles on the roads will decrease. Subsequently, traffic congestion and carbon emission will likewise be reduced enabling a green environment, while the quality of life will similarly be enhanced.

-MCA Online-