The app, called “Big Blue”, is set to be launched in October this year, and will have a pool of about 6,000 cab drivers, who are “unhappy” with Uber and Grab.

According to Shamsubahrin, the app, which was developed at a cost of RM700,000, will help taxi drivers boost their incomes, after they lost nearly half of it when Uber and Grab cars flooded the market some time back.

“Normally my taxi drivers make a minimum of RM350 a day. But nowadays, even making RM150 is hard.

“Besides helping taxi drivers increase their income, this app will also ensure that our current customers are more satisfied with our services,” he told a press conference today.

According to him, drivers will be screened with the relevant authorities before they are included in the database.

The app will also incorporate a rating system where customers have the opportunity to rate their level of satisfaction with the services of the driver.

Problematic drivers, such as those who cheat customers, do not return items customers accidentally left behind, or who take a different route to their destinations, will be blacklisted for a year.

Drivers who receive good ratings will be given cash rewards from the company. Customers will also get to request for a particular driver, if they have a preferred one.

Apart from these, the app will include a panic button system that allows passenger to alert the authorities in the event of an emergency.