Previously, drivers were caught offering illegal ride-hailing services in Singapore and across the border to and from Malaysia, according to Berita Harian.
Following the incident, Johor state assemblyman Andrew Chen is now urging the Malaysian and Singaporean governments to come up with a win-win solution for managing cross-border e-hailing services.
Call for a fair cross-border safety system
In a Facebook post, Andrew said that Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has recently stepped up enforcement against unlicensed chauffeur services, which has impacted many Malaysian drivers.
Andrew added that while he understood Singapore’s rationale in cracking down on unlicensed operators to keep traffic in order and ensure safety, a total ban could affect thousands of Malaysian drivers and their families who depend on this for a living.
“Recently, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore has been ramping up enforcement efforts to crack down on illegal chauffeur services, leaving many Malaysian drivers frustrated and struggling,” he wrote.
He also pointed out that cross-border travel is a key part of the strong relationship between Malaysia and Singapore, not just economically, but also politically and socially.
“This isn’t a win-or-lose situation. Both governments should sit down and work out a fair and legal framework that keeps passengers safe, respects Singaporean operators, and gives both Malaysian and Singaporean drivers a real way forward,” he added.
“We need a clear, fair, and trust-based system”
Andrew also suggested that Malaysia and Singapore come up with a clearer, fairer system that works for both sides. Under this system, drivers would need to:
- Have a Malaysian PSV or Singaporean PDVL license
- Pass a yearly health check
- Get their vehicles inspected regularly at certified centres
- Make sure passengers are covered by accident insurance
He said that by setting clear and enforceable rules together, both countries can manage the issue more responsibly while balancing safety with livelihoods and protecting the rights of drivers and passengers on both sides of the border.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!
Also read: Johor Car Wash Gets Its License Revoked for Only Accepting S’porean Customers & Rejecting Locals
