GRAB Malaysia has seen a reduction in the registration of new part-time drivers following the regulations imposed by the Transport Ministry on ride-hailing companies.  

Country head Sean Goh said the number of new part-time drivers had decreased, but said he was positive the situation will eventually recover.

“It is normal to see a decrease during a transition period.

“We are finding the best solution for all (parties) as we understand the majority of our drivers are part-timers and their income from Grab contributes 30% to their household income,” he told reporters after meeting with the Council of Eminent Persons here today.

Goh said that Grab had engaged with the ministry and emphasised it would be a continuous discussion between the two parties to find common ground.

It was previously reported that e-hailing services would be subject to the same regulations as taxis, especially for licence and registration, vehicle inspection and operational requirements.

E-hailing companies must also register with the Companies Commission, or Cooperative Commission, and ensure vehicles undergo yearly inspections if older than three years.

Currently, more than 50% of Grab’s fleet are above three years old.

Goh said Grab is in discussions with various insurance companies on new insurance requirements and has yet to close the door to any interested party.

The ministry had announced that e-hailing services must provide insurance coverage for drivers, vehicles, passengers, and damages to third parties.

Grab was given a grace period of one year to comply with the new regulations. – Bernama, August 1, 2018.