PUTRAJAYA has approved bike-hailing services which are subjected to the licensing rules and regulations under the Road Transport Act, Anthony Loke told Parliament today.

The transport minister said the bike-hailing service will be subject to the same terms as set out in the e-hailing service.

The trial service is to start in the Klang Valley from January.

The main reason for the government to allow this bike-hailing service as a way of increasing the level of coverage of public transport services in the country.

“This bike-hailing service will be one of the key components of the government’s effort to provide a comprehensive public transport system as it will be a first- and last-mile connectivity service,” he said.

Loke was replying to Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (PH-Setiawangsa) on the specifics when the pilot project, involving Dego Ride and Gojek, will start and whether the ministry has prepared the legal framework.

In September, the cabinet approved a proposal to introduce the ride-sharing service, such as Go-Jek from Indonesia.

Loke said for now, the service will be allowed in the Klang Valley but will be extended to other areas if there is a demand.

The idea was proposed by Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who touted Go-Jek’s employment opportunities for mat motor.

The trial will be for six months and the Ministry of Transport will set certain requirements that operators must adhere to when implementing this process, Loke sadi. 

Among them are that drivers must have a full licence and not less than 18 years of age.

Loke said only one passenger is allowed to be transported at a time and they must be not less than 18 years.

The bikes must have clear markings on motorcycles to indicate the rider is involved in the bike-hailing service while the riders must also be dressed to indicate they were in the business.

To a question from Nik Nazmi on precaution and safety, Loke said enforcement will continue with the Road Transport Department and police

“To also ensure the safety of the passengers, the ministry will work together with the bike-hailing operators.

“All the data they collect must be shared with the government so that we can monitor and ensure that the rules and regulations are followed.

“The cooperation of the operators is crucial for this to succeed and build customers confidence in using the services.” – November 5, 2019.