Traditional cab services not sunset industry: Nancy

KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Nancy Shukri said traditional cab services will still remain relevant despite the rise of e-hailing services in the public transportation industry.

“Some think (traditional cab services) is a dying or sunset industry. We don’t regard it as such, because taxi drivers have been providing services to the people all this while.

“We want them to add value to their services to be at the forefront. We don’t want them to have any fears,” she told a news conference yesterday.

She also urged cab drivers to engage with the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to avoid any uncertainties on their part once amendments to the Land Public Transport Act 2010 is brought before the Dewan Negara to be gazetted.

“We want the taxi drivers to be on the same playing level field. It is up to them if they want to go (on their own) or remain with the companies … but the companies must also be fair to the drivers and passengers.

“There are a lot of uncertainties especially among taxi drivers. They are worried (on the competition with e-hailing services). The companies which are leasing (permits) to taxi drivers must also be able to add value for them.

“We’re talking about insurance, security of users, third party (ownership) ... all these need to be put in place. If there’s anything (else that concerns drivers) we want them to discuss with SPAD.”