70% of Malaysian cross-border ride-hailing drivers suspend services amid Singapore crackdown
Around 70 per cent of Malaysian cross-border ride-hailing drivers have suspended their services following intensified enforcement by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) against illegal ride-hailing operations.
- Singapore’s LTA has stepped up enforcement against unauthorised cross-border ride-hailing services, prompting many Malaysian drivers to halt operations.
- Some 70 per cent of drivers reportedly suspended services over Singapore’s National Day weekend, with further cancellations expected.
- Nineteen drivers were caught in LTA’s latest enforcement round, with all vehicles impounded.
SINGAPORE: About 70 per cent of Malaysian cross-border ride-hailing drivers have suspended their services following heightened enforcement by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) against illegal ride-hailing operations, Malaysian media outlet China Press reported.
The move, which coincided with Singapore’s National Day weekend from 8 to 10 August, has disrupted pre-booked trips for many commuters travelling between Johor Bahru and Singapore. Several drivers have also cancelled bookings for the following week, citing fear of penalties.
Crackdown prompts widespread cancellations
One Malaysian driver, identified as Chen (transliteration), told China Press that many drivers have chosen to suspend their services after reports of intensified checks and vehicle seizures.
“With penalties now more severe, most drivers are unwilling to take the risk,” he said.
According to Chen, more than 60 Malaysian cross-border chartered car drivers — including those offering carpooling and airport shuttle services — were stopped by LTA officers on 5 August. Their vehicles were reportedly impounded.
“Originally, there were many bookings for the National Day public holiday, but this recent enforcement operation has been the most severe yet. Many drivers now don’t dare take the risk,” he added.
Chen said passengers often favour Malaysian cross-border ride-hailing services for their flexibility, convenience, and lower fares compared to Singapore-based operators.
Rising costs for commuters
The suspension of cross-border services has raised concerns about higher travel costs and fewer options for regular commuters.
Hiring a Singapore-licensed vehicle for cross-border trips can cost more than S$200 per journey, compared to between S$150 and S$200 for Malaysian-based drivers — with some room for negotiation.
Chen suggested that if the situation persists, there could be two possible outcomes: both governments might hold discussions to address cross-border transport issues, or services could eventually be consolidated under a regulated platform where fares vary with time and demand.
19 drivers caught in latest enforcement
In a Facebook post on 6 August, the LTA confirmed that 19 drivers were recently caught offering illegal ride-hailing services both within Singapore and for cross-border trips to and from Malaysia.
The operations, conducted at Gardens by the Bay, Changi Airport, and at a land checkpoint in collaboration with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), led to the impoundment of all involved vehicles.
The LTA reiterated that using unauthorised ride-hailing services carries significant risks for passengers. Journeys may be disrupted if drivers are caught mid-operation, leaving commuters stranded or without refunds.
Legal penalties and enforcement focus
Under Singapore law, anyone found guilty of providing illegal ride-hailing services faces a fine of up to S$3,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Vehicles used in the offence may also be forfeited.
The LTA said its enforcement teams would continue to monitor known hotspots for illegal operators and take firm action where necessary.
“Passengers who engage illegal ride-hailing services are putting themselves at risk,” the authority warned, urging commuters to book only through licensed and approved platforms.
Broader implications for cross-border transport
The ongoing crackdown highlights the growing challenge of managing informal cross-border ride-hailing operations between Singapore and Malaysia — a popular transport corridor that sees thousands of daily commuters.
While cross-border taxi and bus services operate under existing bilateral agreements, ride-hailing services have long occupied a regulatory grey area, with operators using private cars to ferry passengers between the two countries without proper authorisation.
Both Singapore and Malaysia have periodically tightened enforcement to deter such practices, citing passenger safety, insurance coverage gaps, and unfair competition with licensed operators.
As enforcement intensifies, industry observers say commuters may face short-term inconvenience and higher fares until regulated cross-border platforms or official partnerships are established.
