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| Source: Uber Malaysia. Foong. |
In response to the Malaysia Prime Minister YAB Dato' Sri Mohd Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak's Budget announcement that ride-sharing will be encouraged, Uber's Leon Foong, GM, Uber Malaysia had this to say:
“We are delighted that the government and Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak have recognised how Uber can positively impact the socioeconomic status of Malaysians in the B40 segment. By providing the choice to earn at the touch of a button to Malaysians from all walks of life, driver-partners can provide for themselves and their families, as well as have greater independence to pursue their dreams.
“We are also thrilled to be engaging Proton, the national car manufacturer, as a partner, and will make an announcement with more details soon. This is the first of its kind in the world for Uber. Just as Uber has been a key pioneer in the ridesharing industry, Proton has also pioneered the automotive industry in Malaysia. We share the same vision to drive Malaysia forward through technological innovation and creating economic opportunities.
“The initiative clearly provides tangible growth and economic empowerment. It is also a clear win for the ridesharing industry and shows forward-thinking leadership. We commend the Malaysian government for this astute, people-centric Budget!
“Wherever we operate, Uber has positively impacted people and cities and we have positively contributed to the local economy. Ride-sharing is here to stay and Uber will certainly continue to do our part in improving urban mobility in Malaysia.”
In his Budget announcement PM Najib said: "To assist the B40 group, especially BR1M recipients to generate additional income, the government will encourage their participation as ride-sharing drivers such as Uber drivers, particularly those who own vehicles.
Their income could reach up to RM1,500 per month for part-time drivers working between 10 to 40 hours per week, and RM4,300 if more than 40 hours per week.
To those who do not own a vehicle, down payment will be made using BR1M and a rebate of RM4,000 will be provided for the purchase of Proton Iriz."
B40 refers to the bottom 40% of households in Malaysia, which have a monthly income RM3,900 and below, while BR1M stands for 1Malaysia People’s Aid.
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