Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has issued a stern warning to e-hailing operators, Aist Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Maxim) and ID Applications Sdn Bhd (InDrive), to comply with all service requirements to operate in the country, including the mandatory E-Hailing Vehicle Permit (EVP), or risk having their licences suspended or revoked.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Anthony Loke stated that both companies are currently under a three-month monitoring period, during which they are expected to demonstrate full compliance. He noted that any operator facing enforcement action has the right to appeal to the MOT, and both companies have done so. Corrective actions have been outlined for them, and improvements have been initiated. As this is their first offence, they are being given the opportunity to rectify the issues. However, non-compliance may lead to suspension or cancellation of their licences.

Loke acknowledged that the offences committed by the two companies, primarily operating without EVP compliance, were serious. Nevertheless, he pointed out the potential impact on drivers and passengers who depend on both platforms. Immediate shutdown without a chance for improvement could lead to backlash from affected users, he explained. Decisions in such matters often attract differing opinions.

On April 24, the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) issued a Notice of Licence Revocation to both Maxim and InDrive, effective from July 24, after an audit revealed major compliance failures, particularly related to EVP requirements. Following this, both companies submitted appeals to the MOT, which accepted and granted them a three-month probationary period starting July 24 to fully adhere to service conditions, failing which would result in regulatory action, with no further leniency.