E-HAILING vehicles do not need to install child seats, which are now compulsory for private vehicles, said the Transport Ministry.

“E-hailing is a public service vehicle hence (it is) not subject to ... (the rules of) private use vehicles,” an aide to the transport minister told The Malaysian Insight.

The requirement for private vehicles to install child seats, or child restraint systems as they are called in the trade, had sparked confusion among e-hailing drivers.

“There is no clear announcement. We are just worried that all of a sudden we might be asked to install. If it is RM50, it is okay. But this is RM200-300,” said a Grab driver who only wanted to be known as Sha.

Yesterday, Grab had said on Twitter that drivers will have to prepare seats for passengers with babies, but that it is seeking discussions with  authorities on the matter.

At time of writing, the e-hailing firm has yet to provide an update.  

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said on December 20 that the requirement is for private vehicles only. 

Loke also said no summonses will be issued for the first six months after the ruling comes into force so as to give motorists time to adapt. – January 5, 2020.