Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Transport Ministry to review e-hailing commission cap as drivers surge
The government is reassessing its 20 percent commission ceiling for ride-sharing platforms following industry feedback, with nearly 171,000 drivers registering under the new fee structure.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia's Transport Ministry has signalled it will review the government-imposed 20 percent commission cap on e-hailing platforms, citing mounting pressure from stakeholders in the ride-sharing sector.
The announcement comes as 170,944 drivers have opted into the new fee arrangement, indicating significant uptake of the regulatory framework since its implementation. The commission ceiling was introduced as part of broader efforts to protect driver livelihoods and ensure competitive practices within the industry.
The ministry's decision to revisit the policy reflects ongoing discussions with platform operators and drivers regarding the balance between maintaining fair commission rates and ensuring the sustainability of e-hailing services. Officials indicated that any adjustments would be considered carefully to protect driver earnings while allowing platforms to operate viably.
The review is expected to involve consultations with relevant stakeholders, including major ride-sharing operators, driver associations, and consumer groups. The ministry has not specified a timeline for concluding the assessment or announced any preliminary findings.
E-hailing has become a significant employment sector in Malaysia, with tens of thousands of drivers relying on the platforms for their primary or supplementary income. Regulatory oversight of commission structures has become increasingly contentious as the industry matures.