Grab says riders enjoying benefits despite flexible hours, self-employed status

The country's leading p-hailing operator Grab said it was committed to transparent earnings for its riders but did not give any specific indication of revising their commission and delivery rates.

In a statement, Grab said the nature of the job offered to its partners was flexible, adding that they could "start and stop work anytime" besides taking on other income-generating opportunities.

The company also said it has invested in riders' welfare, including insurance coverage, upskilling opportunities, fuel discounts, and contributions for Socso and EPF.

"Recognising this, we will continue to ensure we strive for fairness and transparency in our partners’ earnings," said Grab Malaysia managing director Adelene Foo.

On Tuesday, Grab representatives and 23 other p-hailing companies attended a meeting called by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, following up on his promise to bring up riders' complaints over low rates and commissions.

Following the meeting, Anwar reportedly said the companies had agreed to further refine the issue of wages offered to riders.

"This effort proves that the government is sensitive and cares about the interests of all parties in increasing the people's income generation and ensuring business continuity," he said in a statement.

Anwar had given his word to take up the issue during a gathering in Petaling Jaya last month to muster support from p-hailing riders in Selangor ahead of crucial elections on Aug 12.

Grab, in its statement today, said it has been providing protections despite the riders' status as self-employed workers.

"Consistent with this, we will work with the government to improve on social protection and ensure the provision of upskilling opportunities for our partners, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving gig economy," it added.