E-hailing service providers told to explain reports of fare hikes

The transport ministry is looking into e-hailing services and holding discussions with service providers following complaints that the increasingly expensive fares are becoming a burden to consumers.

Minister Wee Ka Siong said he had instructed the top management to call the companies involved to provide an explanation and clarification of the alleged increase in fares.

“An increase from RM20 to RM70 in the current situation is seen as burdensome to the people, so I think as a policymaker, we will see if any party is taking advantage to make a profit.

“I’ve also asked the Land Public Transport Agency to review, and to ask the companies to explain what really happened. In a day or two I expect them to give an explanation so that we can see in terms of what we should do and whether to encourage more competition,” he told reporters in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Wee also said his ministry would not compromise with any company found trying to take advantage by increasing fares or companies seeking to manipulate e-hailing fares to make a profit.

Fares were recently reported to have increased by up to 400% during peak hours, sparking discontent from consumers who called for government intervention.