A GROUP representing p-hailing riders Persatuan Perpaduan Rakan Penghantar Malaysia has issued a fervent call for government intervention following Grab’s recent overhaul of its earnings framework. The riders’ association labeled the move as hastily executed and criticised Grab for allegedly failing to engage properly with the affected riders.
The group urged Grab to promptly revert to the previous earnings framework, asserting that the new rates were unreasonably low and the calculations behind them were unclear. The statement also implored the government to take immediate action, emphasising the necessity for short-term measures to address the predicament faced by p-hailing riders.
“We call on the government to take action and intervene in this issue concerning p-hailing riders.”
The riders’ group contended that Grab’s actions disregarded previous discussions involving riders, p-hailing operators, the Human Resources Ministry, the Transport Ministry, the Communications Ministry, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who had collectively explored the need for a revision of rates.
“In our view, as long as there is no specific law enacted by the government for the gig economy, p-hailing-related issues will persist,” it added.
Highlighting a critical aspect, the group called on the government to expedite the establishment of a regulatory body dedicated to overseeing the gig economy. Such a regulatory body, according to the group, would play a crucial role in safeguarding the welfare of gig workers, particularly those engaged in p-hailing services.
In response to mounting pressure, Grab yesterday (Jan 17) defended its revamped delivery fee and bonus framework, noting that the changes benefit their most active delivery partners.
Moreover, the company assured that the new framework fairly compensates for bookings that require additional time and effort, citing adjustments in base fares and increased incentives for specific delivery scenarios.
Despite Grab’s defence, a faction of its riders has voiced opposition to the new framework and is actively encouraging others to join in a boycott against the ride-hailing and food delivery giant.
Furthermore, social media has become a battleground for these sentiments with posters circulating urging Grab riders to abstain from work on Friday (Jan 19). – Jan 18, 2023
