KUALA LUMPUR: E-hailing service provider inDrive is in talks with the Transport Ministry regarding its price bidding system for passengers.

inDrive's business development lead for Malaysia Govin Kumaar Panirsheeluam said the company has submitted an official letter to the ministry on the issue and is awaiting a response.

"We will ensure that our drivers operate within regulations, and all bidding will strictly occur within the app's ecosystem.

"This ties with our mission as well, in creating a fair marketplace for drivers as well as the passengers," he told the media here today.

While inDrive has not yet had formal meetings with the ministry, Govin said the company is in active discussions with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to ensure compliance with all regulatory requests.

"It takes time but we are committed to resolving this," he said.

In May last year, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry had never approved a price bidding system for e-hailing operators.   

This was in response to when he was asked to comment on the growing popularity of a bidding system users and drivers on e-hailing apps can negotiate on a fare before agreeing upon the rate.

Loke said the ministry had never been informed of the system and had had APAD to investigate it as a precaution.

The company's price bidding model is a distinctive feature that differentiates inDrive from other e-hailing platforms, and these discussions with the authorities are crucial to ensure its seamless integration into the Malaysian transport ecosystem.

Since entering the Malaysian market, inDrive has rapidly expanded its footprint to urban agglomeration and major cities including Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor Bahru.  

InDrive marketing director of APAC region Natalia Makarenko said the company has achieved impressive milestones, with a 20 per cent increase in rides and a 21 per cent surge in active users during the first half of 2024.

Makarenko said the number of active drivers is expected to increase by 23 per cent, reflecting the rising demand for inDrive's unique ride-hailing services in Malaysia.

"The Malaysian market is one of our key growth areas in Southeast Asia, and we are committed to delivering innovative, community-focused mobility solutions that resonate with local needs.

"Our goal is to not only provide a better ride-hailing experience but also to be a meaningful part of the communities we serve through sustainable practices and impactful initiatives," she added.

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/09/1104012/indrive-talks-transport-ministry-price-bidding-system