PICKnGO has provided taxi operators the choice to join their distribution services to enhance their earning in the Movement Control Order (MCO). This is a taxi-oriented ride-sharing service unveiled in 2017. It enables users to reserve trips and also request pick-up and distribution services of essential items and groceries from selected locations.
Clients require to reserve a trip via their mobile application and leave an appropriate remark or description for a delivery order in the message section. The executive director of PICKnGO, Valerie Chan stated that they began the latest service to offer an extra avenue for taxi operators to make a living in this difficulty time.
“In this unprecedented situation, taxi drivers are experiencing a hard time earning a living by ferrying passengers (only), and their earnings have also significantly dropped since the MCO, as most people do not leave their homes. Though the Finance Ministry announced that taxi and e-hailing drivers are eligible for a one-off financial assistance of RM600 for taxis and RM500 GrabCar drivers, it is insufficient to sustain them,” Valerie said this through a statement.
She also said that financial backing is a short-term help for taxi operators.
“Taxis are listed under essential services, hence they are allowed to move around to offer their services. With the widespread transmission of Covid-19, we have advised our drivers to take additional precautions by wearing face masks and have sanitizers in their vehicles at all times. Passengers too must wear a mask while riding with us, as a safety measure for both parties. We also practice contactless and cashless payment systems though the app to reduce any physical contact”, she said.
Furthermore, she mentioned that this will allow taxi firms to maintain the changing e-hailing landscape which has turned out to be even challenging because of the outbreak.
Chan further warned taxi operators not to surrender in this challenging period. She further expressed optimism that the public may back them by the use of their delivery services.
Chan stated that PICKnGO intends to partner with other sector players to offer food distributions and courier services. But all this is in the coming days.