DRIVING schools will be shut down and their licences revoked if found to be selling e-hailing drivers the public service vehicle (PSV) licence without applicants going through the process, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

The ministry has yet to receive information on the syndicates that are allegedly flouting the law but warned driving schools of the stern action if found in cahoots.

“Syndicates that are selling the PSV licences will be referred to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

“Action will be taken against anyone involved in the scam,” he said at the ministry in Putrajaya today.

The Malaysian Insight had reported that some e-hailing drivers are obtaining their PSV licences without having to sit for tests through “under-the-table” payments of between RM400 and RM800. 

Drivers told The Malaysian Insight that the syndicate’s “package” includes a “guarantee” that they will pass the medical exam, and their vehicles, the annual inspection.

The country’s largest e-hailing service provider, Grab, said it is aware of the scam, but pushed the responsibility of eradicating it to the ministry.

According to the ministry, there are 227 driving institutes and five e-hailing operators that are entitled to carry training for driver to obtain PSV licences.

Drivers can also take the PSV exams online through the ePSV.

Since October, a total of 113,118 drivers had applied for the licence.

Out of that, 54,483 drivers had gotten their PSV licences, while 32,667 had failed.

Loke said those who had failed can reapply.

“There is no limit. They can apply as many times as they like.” – October 9, 2019.