Recently, more than 1,000 Malaysian ride-hailing and chartered vehicle drivers said they want to form an association. Their goal? To get the Malaysian government to talk to Singapore about easing the clampdown on illegal cross-border services.
The drivers say the recent enforcement by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has affected their livelihoods, so they hope that through forming a new association, the Malaysian authorities can look into their plight and help push for proper licensing and insurance so they can operate legally.
Clampdown on illegal ride-hailing services
The clampdown started after feedback from local taxi and private-hire drivers, who said illegal cross-border services from Malaysia were affecting their business and undercutting fares.
Following these concerns, the LTA stepped up enforcement to make sure all cross-border services meet Singapore’s licensing, safety, and insurance requirements.
This effort was also supported by the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and its affiliate associations, which have been actively engaging the authorities to protect the livelihoods of Singapore drivers.
Workgroup set up to tackle issues affecting platform workers
Beyond the clampdown, authorities have also set up a trilateral workgroup that brings together the Ministry of Transport (MOT), the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), and major platform operators like Grab.
This workgroup was formed to tackle issues affecting local drivers head-on, from ensuring fair competition against illegal foreign operators to improving welfare, safety, and earnings for platform workers.
Through this partnership, drivers gain a direct way to raise concerns, influence policies, and receive targeted support such as enhanced insurance coverage, mandatory CPF contributions, training programs, and efforts to boost job security.
Singapore is one step ahead in protecting local platform workers
If you compare the two countries, Singapore is already ahead when it comes to looking after this group of workers, the platform workers.
Here in Singapore, private-hire drivers, delivery riders, and other gig workers have long been part of discussions between the Government, NTUC, and industry stakeholders.
Over the years, measures have been introduced to give platform workers better protection, including:
- CPF contributions to help them save for retirement
- Insurance coverage for work injuries
- Training and skills upgrading to help them adapt to industry changes
The clampdown on illegal cross-border chauffeured services is not just about rules for the sake of rules. It’s about making sure there is a level playing field for all drivers in Singapore, and that passengers are protected through proper licensing, insurance, and safety standards.
While Malaysia is still in the early stages of organising its platform workers, Singapore’s platform workers already have a proper framework in place to protect their livelihoods and welfare.
So hor, sometimes being a bit kiasu is a good thing lah! And when everyone is prepared and works together, the government, unions, and workers, we confirm stand a much stronger chance to handle any changes in the industry one.
