RIDE-HAILING companies like Grab and Uber have revolutionised the way we commute, providing a cheaper, convenient and efficient alternative to conventional taxi service.
Driving ourselves is now an option, while negotiating with taxi drivers to go to congested locations during peak hours is a thing of the past.
Not only have e-hailing services transformed the way we commute, they have also provided a lifeline for many to earn extra money. Apparently, there are more than 60,000 providing this service.
Apart from being convenient, affordable and efficient, ride-hailing service firms provide driver evaluation by passengers.
This has kept drivers on their toes.
It’s unfortunate that this feature was never used for conventional taxi drivers.
While the Malaysia Consumers Movement commends Uber and Grab for this innovation, it would be ideal if more players would participate and compete in this market segment.
There could be a risk of collusion between players, allowing them to dominate the sector.
What is cheap now may end up becoming costlier in the future once the market share of conventional taxis is wiped out.
Competition benefits consumers.
MCM calls on the government to encourage the participation of more e-hailing companies.
To do this, the government should avoid setting up more regulatory barriers.
While we enjoy the convenience provided by e-hailing companies, support and guidance in the form of technological know-how must also be provided to taxi drivers so that they can sustain their livelihood by adopting technological trends.
DARSHAN SINGH DHILLON
President, Malaysia Consumers Movement, Kuala Lumpur