Illegal Ride-Hailing Services: A Growing Concern in Malaysia
The Issue
Gabungan Teksi SeMalaysia, a transport industry association, has called on the Transport Ministry to take more effective measures to stop illegal ride-hailing services, known as kereta sapu, which continue to operate in Malaysia.
Inadequate Enforcement
According to Gabungan Teksi SeMalaysia president Kamarudin Mohd Hussain, inadequate enforcement efforts have made it easier for illegal operators to hide behind e-hailing services to operate. He stated that the situation has worsened due to the inability of enforcement authorities to curb kereta sapu activities and legal loopholes within the e-hailing sector that make it difficult to distinguish between licensed vehicles and kereta sapu.
Consequences of Illegal Operations
Kereta sapu operations have a detrimental impact on Malaysia’s transport ecosystem as they bypass established legal frameworks and undermine the safety, fairness, and integrity of the transport sector. These illegal services also create regulatory challenges as enforcement agencies struggle to address their operations.
Risks to Passenger Safety
Dr. Siti Ayu Jalil, head of legal and quality at UiTM Malaysian Institute of Transport, emphasized that kereta sapu operations pose risks to passenger safety as they often operate without proper regulations or standards. She highlighted the lack of insurance coverage in the event of a road crash, unfair pricing, and the absence of safety standards for drivers as significant concerns.
Penalties for Illegal Activities
Individuals involved in these activities would be penalized under Section 23(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for the misuse of the Motor Vehicle Licence. If convicted, offenders could face a fine of between RM1,000 and RM10,000, up to two years’ jail, or both.
Proposed Solutions
Kamarudin proposed that the government grant enforcement authority to the Land Public Transport Agency, similar to the powers previously held by the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board. He also suggested that any appointment of enforcement officers within the agency must follow strict standards to avoid the shortcomings of the past.
Conclusion
The issue of kereta sapu operations in Malaysia is a growing concern that requires immediate attention and effective measures to address. The Transport Ministry, e-hailing companies, and the community must work together to eliminate these illegal services and ensure the safety and integrity of the transport sector.
FAQs
Q: What is kereta sapu?
A: Kereta sapu is a term used to describe illegal ride-hailing services that operate without proper licenses or regulations.
Q: How many illegal operators have been arrested since 2022?
A: According to the Road Transport Department, 469 illegal operators have been arrested since 2022 and fined more than RM1.66 million.
Q: What are the consequences of using kereta sapu services?
A: Individuals who use kereta sapu services may face penalties under the Road Transport Act 1987, including fines and imprisonment.