Penang Uber drivers cry foul over imposition of low-fare rate

GEORGE TOWN: More than 50 Penang Uber drivers are crying foul against the company for not taking their grievances into account.
Group spokesman Francis Loke, a former full-time Uber driver, said Uber drivers in the state were unhappy with the low-fare rate imposed by the management which affected their livelihoods.
Loke who has been suspended by the company, said the management had on April 29 announced a zero flag-down rate (previously customers had to pay RM3.50), RM0.50 per km or RM0.20 per minute for the drivers.
He expressed hope that the management would remove the surge rate and incentives and replace it with a flat base of RM3 followed by RM0.60 per km and RM0.30 per minute.
Loke expressed disappointment that the management did not take the drivers' grievances into account, although a discussion was held between them to find a amicable solution to the issue.
"Our aim is to take Uber Penang to greater heights," he told a press conference accompanied by other aggrieved drivers.
Bernama reports Loke as saying that many of Penang's Uber drivers have been suspended for being too vocal in voicing out the issue against the management.

"We are considering to quit driving under Uber App until Uber Management revises the fare which is more reasonable for us," he said.

He said the Penang Uber Partners are actively looking for other new driving platforms or App operators who can offer better income for their service.

Uber officially commenced operations on Penang island last May before expanding its service to the mainland.