The Malaysian Insight

E-HAILING service provider Grab will appeal to the authorities over a summons issued to one of its drivers in Penang who had picked up a passenger at the Penang International Airport.

A Grab spokesman told The Malaysian Insight that the company was aware of the issue and was helping with its driver’s appeal to the authorities.

“We are also trying to discuss with the authorities to have a better way moving forward,” she said in a WhatsApp message.

Reports had surfaced on social media of a Grab driver being issued a summons by the Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) after picking up passengers from the airport on January 1.

The offence stated in the summons was for using his driving licence to pick up passengers.

Following the incident, Grab drivers have avoided picking up passengers at the airport and are only providing drop-off services.

It is also learnt that Grab had told its fleet of drivers in Penang that they could continue picking up and dropping off passengers at the airport.

“We have engaged regulators and would like to confirm that picking up and dropping off passengers at the airport are permitted as long as the booking is done through the Grab app.

“However, please be reminded not to wait around at the airport for jobs because it might cause congestion. JPJ will take action against those found not abiding with regulations,” the message to the drivers read.

Last month, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that e-hailing drivers had until July this year to apply for the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence as part of the ministry’s move to standardise regulations for e-hailing and taxi drivers. The change in licence will require drivers to attend a course and pay RM200 for the document.

Section 23(2) of the Road Transport Act requires motorists to use their driving licences for the stated purpose.

Grab drivers in Penang had recently begun facing difficulties operating at the Penang airport. Last month, a group of limousine drivers tried to stop Grab drivers from taking passengers from the airport.

In protest, they demanded that the government and airport authorities “follow the law” and prohibit e-hailing drivers from picking up passengers at the airport. – January 3, 2019.