SHAH ALAM, March 31 — The government is open to allowing e-hailing carpools to ease commuting costs and improve transport efficiency amid rising global energy pressures, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.
He said the move would allow multiple passengers to share rides and split fares.
“We actually do allow e-hailing operators to implement carpool systems… they can pick up multiple passengers along the way,” he said at a press conference after attending a fundraiser for SMJK Chan Wa at Courtyard by Marriott here today.
Loke said the current model, where one e-hailing vehicle serves a single passenger at a time, makes trips more expensive, adding that rideshares could significantly reduce costs, with its uptake ultimately depending on user adoption.
He said this is a government measure to cushion the impact of rising energy prices and living costs, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
In his speech during the fundraiser, Loke said the conflict is a serious matter, with the government now in crisis mode.
He noted that energy costs have increased more than 100 per cent over the past month, which have affected industries and economies worldwide.
“Even though our lights are on now, (and) petrol stations are still (operating) normally, we cannot take things for granted,” he said, warning that Malaysia could eventually feel the impact if the conflict persists.
Meanwhile, Loke said the government is already providing incentives to encourage public transport use, including the My50 monthly pass in the Klang Valley.
He urged both individuals and companies to adopt more efficient travel habits, including by carpooling and reducing unnecessary trips, to conserve fuel.
“Carpooling is important. Not only can you save your petrol money, but, more importantly, it helps preserve supply.”
Loke said Malaysians must start adjusting their lifestyles, such as by reducing waste and using resources more efficiently, as the global outlook remains uncertain.
