PORT DICKSON: Taxi drivers in Port Dickson are calling for equal treatment from the government, requesting a subsistence allowance of RM300 and a diesel subsidy similar to what is currently provided to fishermen. The Port Dickson Taxi Drivers and Rented Car Owners Welfare Association secretary, Mohd Alwi Taib, explained that taxi drivers used to receive a diesel subsidy amounting to RM800, but this aid was eventually withdrawn. In light of the prevailing economic slowdown, high cost of living, and increasing competition within the industry, he hopes that the government will reconsider providing this assistance to taxi drivers.
Mohd Alwi also highlighted that fishermen receive RM300 assistance and diesel subsidies, and he hopes that a similar level of support can be extended to taxi drivers. In the past, the Taxi Drivers Welfare Card was provided, which had a value of RM800 and could be used to purchase petrol or natural gas at Petronas stations across the country. Additionally, Mohd Alwi raised concerns about toll fares, stating that despite taxis enjoying a half-price discount on highways, the toll from Port Dickson to Seremban remains at RM2.60, which is the same rate charged to other cars. He urged the Transport Ministry and the government to address this issue.
Deputy president of the association, Mohana Chandran, shared that the Port Dickson jetty has an agreement with local drivers that only taxis could enter the marina area to pick up passengers. However, he noted that e-hailing drivers are now entering the same area to pick up passengers, leading to problems. He clarified that as long as e-hailing drivers receive orders through the app, they are allowed to pick up and drop off passengers. Nevertheless, some drivers do not use the e-hailing app and offer discounts, waiting until the vehicle is full with four passengers before leaving. The association has lodged complaints with the Road Transport Department, but the issue persists.
Responding to these concerns, Pakatan Harapan’s candidate G. Rajasekaran engaged in a dialogue with the taxi drivers, attentively addressing their challenges. If elected, Rajasekaran promised to assist in solving the issues faced by taxi drivers. However, he stated that he cannot make any promises at the moment, but he will continue to help the needy and B40 with free medical check-ups as an ongoing service.
With 36 seats up for grabs in Negri Sembilan, polling is scheduled for August 12. Rajasekaran is facing Zabidi Ariffin of Perikatan Nasional for the Sri Tanjong state seat.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
