Government continues with RM500 e-hailing aid with new initiative for operators

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said an allocation of RM66 million has been set aside to support the 118,000 drivers of e-hailing vehicles, taxis, buses, rental cars and 14,000 tourist guides who were trying to make ends meet.

Under the Malaysian government’s latest “Permai” economy and people’s assistance package, the group who worked in public transportation are set to receive a one-off financial assistance of RM500.

The special granting of aid was to ease the burden of the affected group under the recently enforced movement control order (MCO) due to the rising daily Covid-19 cases.   

This is the second of such financial aid distribution to the individuals from the group above, dispersed with a much larger budget back in June 2020.

To further support taxi and bus operators, the government is also introducing a hire purchase rehabilitation scheme. Under this scheme valued at RM1 billion, a 50% guarantee on financing from hire purchase and leasing companies will be provided for sightseeing buses and taxis. 

Operators will also enjoy a 12-month moratorium and lower monthly repayments. 

Meanwhile, the ownership of taxis that are earmarked for transfer, disposal and for private used has been reduced from seven to five years.