Additional funding for p-hailing riders’ upskilling, other initiatives - Anwar

The government has agreed to increase funding for upskilling training programmes and other parcel-hailing (p-hailing) initiatives, The Star reported. Anwar made the decision following a meeting with 24 p-hailing service operators. 

Anwar addressed fellow company representatives on Tuesday about the concerns of p-hailing riders about delivery wage rates, whom he had previously met. 

“After listening to both sides, the government has agreed to increase funding for initiatives and upskilling training programmes for p-hailing riders under the human resources ministry.

“This demonstrates the government’s concern for the interests of all parties in boosting people’s income and ensuring business sustainability,” said Anwar in a statement. 

All operators have also pledged to be more transparent about their wage-rate calculation methods. 

Despite the improvements, Anwar stated that the interests of customers, particularly those in rural areas, must remain first.  This initiative was inspired by a food delivery person who attended the 'Meet Anwar' programme, which was held in conjunction with the Selangor Madani Driver Collection Programme. 

He claimed that riders' wages had been cut by RM7 or less, lowering their income. A recent February study appears to back this up. According to the study, 27% of passengers who use e-hailing services earn between RM1,501 and RM2,499 per month.

Meanwhile, only 12% of riders earn between RM2,500 and RM3,170 per month. According to reports, 60% of them have no savings, and 55% have no personal accident or life insurance policies.