Loke said this is important because the taxi industry is more than just transportation, but represents the heartbeat of public service and serves as the first impression of the country for tourists.

He said the government has also increased the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) contribution incentive from 10% to 30% to safeguard the welfare of taxi drivers.

“These reforms are ongoing, and I will continue to work with this industry to strengthen the public transport sector for the benefit of the people,” he said in a Facebook post.

Earlier, Loke officiated the third annual general meeting of the Malaysia Taxi, Rental Car, Limousine and Airport Taxi Association (GTSM), which gave him the opportunity to hear for himself the industry’s views.

He said meaningful reforms in the sector can only be implemented through close collaboration between the transport ministry and industry players, such as GTSM.