SPAD mulls driver card system for Uber, Grabcar drivers

The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) will consider introducing a 'driver card' system for Uber and Grabcar drivers to allow them to operate legally, said its chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar.

Nevertheless, he said SPAD will have to conduct a comprehensive study of the system as this would involve private individuals who were without public service vehicle (PSV) operator's licence.

"We will table this proposal to the government especially on the conditions to transform the public transport industry without ignoring the feelings of ordinary taxi drivers who have been burdened with lease finance and the hire purchase system," he said.

He was speaking to reporters after launching Ekspress Mayang Sari's new routes and buses in Bukit Pasir today.

Also present was Mayang Sari Sdn Bhd owner Datuk Azman Mohd Arof.

Syed Hamid said the system implementation would be similar to requirements for obtaining PSV but SPAD would discuss the matter in greater detail with industry players before making the decision.

"It will take some time to implement this new system because new laws and legal changes will have to be applied in adjusting the system for Grabcar, Uber and normal taxi drivers," he said.

Meanwhile, on the High-Speed Rail (HSR), Syed Hamid said the project developed by MyHSR Corp Sdn Bhd and expected to be ready in 2026 was now into its second phase of development.

At the same time, SPAD would continue to monitor the project to ensure work progress was according to schedule and the materials and services met with the government specifications.

He said the project would transform the transportation landscape bringing economic benefits not only to developers but also those living around the HSR stops including Muar.