Uber dodges questions on whether it intends to legalise its service

Uber, which operates its own transportation network, is dodging questions on whether it intends to seek to legalise its service.

Asked if the company wants to legalise its operations, Uber general manager in Malaysia Leon Foong replied: "We look forward to assisting the Malaysian authorities' efforts in building a smarter urban mobility ecosystem that embraces innovation and puts the safety and interests of Malaysian commuters and drivers first."

When Bernama asked if it was difficult for Uber to get its service legalised, he said: "In Malaysia, like we are doing around the world, Uber is working with governments to achieve common goals, focused on safe, reliable and efficient transportation options that are regulated."

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim has been reported as saying that the automated smartphone taxi-booking system of Uber is illegal because its drivers operate without a licence or permit.

He said that drivers wishing to provide such a service must possess a Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD)-issued licence and permit.

Leon Foong was dismissive about the demonstration that hundreds of taxi drivers held at Padang Merbok here today to protest against Uber.

He claimed that the drivers were in the minority because "representatives from the taxi industry have themselves spoken out against the demonstration".

"Kuala Lumpur should not be held captive by taxi associations that want to ignore smart technology and live in the past," Leon Foong said.