Malaysia, Singapore raise taxi quota, add two operators

KUALA LUMPUR: Singapore-based CDG Zig Pte Ltd and Kumpool Sdn Bhd will join the cross-border taxi scheme between the two countries from Nov 16, as the licensed taxi quota increases from 300 to 500 per country.

The two operators will join existing operator GrabCar Pte Ltd under the enhanced Cross-Border Taxi Scheme.

The expansion is expected to increase the availability of licensed cross-border transport services, giving commuters more choices and greater convenience when travelling between the two countries.

In a joint statement, Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Malaysia's Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) said the latest improvements reflected both countries' continued commitment to strengthening cross-border connectivity.

LTA chief executive Ng Lang said the increase in the taxi quota was an important step towards improving connectivity between Singapore and Malaysia.

"It reflects the strong and longstanding cooperation between our two countries.

"By expanding the availability of licensed cross-border services, we are giving travellers more options and greater flexibility for their journeys," he said.

He said LTA would continue working closely with its Malaysian counterparts to improve cross-border travel and better meet the needs of commuters in both countries.

APAD director-general Ahmad Radhi Maarof welcomed the expansion, describing the introduction of the two new operators and the increased taxi quota as a significant development for cross-border passenger movement.

"This marks a significant milestone in enhancing cross-border passenger movement and complementing first-mile and last-mile connectivity between Johor Bahru and Singapore.

"It is our hope that this new development will further enhance connectivity between the two nations," he said in a statement.

The latest expansion follows enhancements introduced by both countries on May 4, aimed at providing greater convenience to travellers while ensuring fair operating conditions for transport providers and drivers.

Among the improvements were the introduction of designated pick-up points for ride-hailing and e-hailing bookings, more flexible drop-off locations, an increase in the licensed cross-border taxi quota and additional requirements to strengthen enforcement against illegal domestic point-to-point trips.

Under the enhanced arrangements, passengers can be dropped off at locations across Singapore and within designated operating areas in Johor, including Johor Baru, Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai and Senai.

The scheme also allows families and business travellers to opt for larger and premium vehicles.