Govt allocates extra RM10mil for taxi drivers

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has allocated an additional RM10 million specifically for the welfare and empowerment of taxi drivers nationwide, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the funding reflects the government’s appreciation for taxi drivers, whom he described as frontliners who reflect the politeness and manners of Malaysians to foreign visitors.

“We who have travelled abroad know that if a taxi driver is rude and harsh, it will not attract tourists.

“Tourists see that Malaysians are very polite, courteous and kind.

“Because of this good reception, I have today approved an additional RM10 million specifically for taxis,” he said when launching the Madani National Taxi Reform Programme at Dataran Merdeka.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the funds will be channelled through existing assistance schemes to strengthen welfare support, vehicle ownership assistance, and training programmes for drivers.

“I hear their concerns (taxi drivers) about competition, cost of living, and vehicle conditions. The Madani government will not sideline this group.

“This RM10 million is an initial step to help in terms of subsidies, maintenance, and human capital empowerment training programmes,” he said.

Earlier. transport minister Loke Siew Fook said that taxi drivers taking part in the programme will now own their vehicles outright under a new financing model, replacing the long-standing leasing system.

He said taxis under the programme will use the Proton S70 models with a modern identity, without “taxi toppers”, and will be fitted with digital meters and special “GET” series registration plates.

“In terms of operational welfare, the government has agreed to improve the periodic inspection process at Puspakom by giving priority lanes to taxi drivers to speed up their procedures,” he said.