GEORGE TOWN: Taxi drivers in the state have thanked the government for a one-off RM1,000 cash assistance, saying it will help cover vehicle maintenance, daily expenses, and family needs.
For veteran drivers, the financial aid provides much-needed relief amid rising operating costs and declining tourist numbers, with several calling for more affordable replacement vehicles to support their livelihoods.
Taxi driver Mohamad Zahir Abd Razak, 55, who has been driving a taxi for more than 15 years, said the aid would help ease the burden of meeting daily expenses, maintaining his vehicle and supporting his children.
"We are very grateful for the RM1,000 assistance. At least, it helps ease the burden of our daily expenses, maintenance and spending on our children," he said after receiving the voucher from Transport Minister Anthony Loke at a ceremony in Dewan Sri Pinang.
Nearly 700 drivers attended the ceremony in Penang, which served as the first distribution event held outside Putrajaya.
The assistance, introduced under the 2027 Budget, will benefit about 38,000 taxi and rental car drivers and 15,000 school bus drivers nationwide.
Zahir noted that the government has previously extended support to taxi operators and expressed appreciation for the continued assistance.
Nur Marina Mohamed Elias, in her 50s, who has worked as a driver for 12 years, said she plans to use the money to upgrade her vehicle.
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She noted that fewer tourist arrivals have impacted daily earnings, making additional financial support crucial for operators facing economic pressure.
Meanwhile, Penang Sentral taxi driver S. Kumaran, 54, said the funds would help support his family, including his 12-year-old child.
He said the money would be useful not only for family expenses during Deepavali but also for his child's schooling next year.
However, Kumaran urged the Transport Ministry to consider making more affordable taxis available to drivers who could not afford pricier models.
He said budget-friendly options would enable drivers to replace ageing vehicles without incurring excessive financial hardship.
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