About 70 per cent of cross-border ride-hailing drivers in Malaysia have reportedly decided to suspend their services ahead of Singapore’s National Day weekend, while some have also cancelled bookings for the week after the holiday.
According to Malaysian media outlet China Press, the move follows intensified enforcement by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) against illegal ride-hailing services operating between Malaysia and Singapore.
The stricter enforcement measures have prompted many Malaysian cross-border drivers to inform passengers that their bookings will be cancelled, even when reservations were made well in advance.
One driver, identified as Chen (transliteration), told China Press that with penalties now more severe, many drivers were unwilling to take the risk.
In Singapore, vehicles suspected of carrying out illegal services can be impounded, and drivers face hefty punishments if caught.
Chen said that, according to unofficial statistics, more than 60 Malaysian cross-border chartered car drivers were stopped by LTA officers on 5 August, with their vehicles — including those providing carpooling and airport shuttle services — confiscated.
The recent crackdown has led to an estimated 70 per cent of drivers halting services between 8 and 10 August.
“Originally, there were many bookings for the Singapore National Day public holiday, but this recent enforcement operation has been the most severe yet. Many drivers now don’t dare take the risk,” Chen said.
Chen noted that many passengers prefer Malaysian cross-border ride-hailing services for their convenience, flexible pick-up arrangements, and competitive prices.
However, he said the current crackdown has broader implications for commuters.
As an example, he pointed out that hiring a Singapore-based fleet for cross-border travel can cost upwards of S$200 per trip.
Illegal cross-border rides from Malaysia typically range between S$150 and S$200, with room for negotiation.
Chen added that if the situation escalates, there could be two possible outcomes.
The Malaysian and Singaporean governments might engage in discussions, though the results may not be favourable, or cross-border transport services could be consolidated under a specific platform, with fares varying based on time and demand.
19 drivers caught in latest crackdown on unauthorised services
The LTA has warned that using illegal ride-hailing services puts passengers at risk, as their journeys may be disrupted if drivers are caught during enforcement operations.
Those found guilty of offering such services face fines of up to S$3,000, a maximum of six months’ imprisonment, or both.
Their vehicles may also be forfeited.
In a Facebook post on 6 August, the LTA said 19 drivers had recently been caught providing illegal ride-hailing services within Singapore and for cross-border trips to and from Malaysia.
The drivers were apprehended during patrols at Gardens by the Bay and Changi Airport, as well as during joint operations with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at a land checkpoint.
All vehicles involved were impounded.
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