While there has been news of Maxim and inDrive going away, TPAD wants a clear answer
The Persatuan Transformasi Pengangkutan Awam Darat (TPAD) expresses its deep concern over the recent directive issued by the Ministry of Transport (MOT), instructing global e-hailing providers inDrive and Maxim to cease operations in Malaysia by 24 July 2025. This decision, announced by YB Anthony Loke, Minister of Transport, needs a clear explanation too.
While TPAD respects the government’s authority to regulate transportation services in the interest of public safety and orderly development, we believe that major regulatory decisions, especially those that will affect thousands of livelihoods and daily commuters, must be guided by transparent communication and sound, evidence-based assessments.
Moreover, a large number of e-hailing drivers rely on platforms like inDrive and Maxim due to their flexible operating models and lower commission rates. For example, inDrive offers one of the most driver-friendly commission structures in the country, enabling drivers to retain a greater share of their earnings.
This has been particularly beneficial for those living in smaller towns and rural areas, where economic opportunities may be more limited. Nathan Mathivanan, President of TPAD also said, “For many drivers, platforms like these have enabled more stable and sustainable incomes. We must consider what the future holds for these drivers if competition in the market is reduced.”
The impact on passengers should not be overlooked either. A decline in competition among service providers could lead to higher fares and fewer choices, especially in underserved areas. TPAD notes that in some other countries, fare structures are regulated through government-recommended tariffs to ensure fairness and affordability.
On top of that, Malaysia currently lacks such a system. Without sufficient market competition or price guidelines, questions arise about how affordable and accessible e-hailing services will remain for the general public.
In light of this, TPAD respectfully urges the Ministry of Transport and APAD to provide a clear explanation of the legal and regulatory reasons behind these cease-operation directives. They also urge the Malaysian Competition Commission (MyCC) to assess whether these actions could create anti-competitive conditions in the e-hailing sector.
TPAD also urges lawmakers and relevant experts to launch a thorough review of Malaysia’s e-hailing policies, with a focus on long-term affordability, accessibility and driver welfare.
This issue is not just about regulatory compliance. It concerns the everyday transport needs of Malaysians and the livelihoods of thousands of drivers. TPAD remains committed to working constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that Malaysia’s e-hailing industry grows in a fair, inclusive and sustainable direction.
