13-05-2025
InDrive & Maxim banned in Malaysia starting July — appeals still possible
To my fellow commuters who, like me, juggle between various e-hailing apps to get around, it looks like we've got one more thing to add to our list of travel headaches. Starting 24 July 2025, both Maxim and InDrive will be officially pulled off the roads following a government order.
Although whispers about the possible shutdown of these 2 platforms have been circling for some time now, the confirmation only came recently. On 9 May, Transport Minister Anthony Loke made the announcement public.
This move comes after the Malaysian P-Hailing Riders Association brought the issue to light earlier this month. They called out the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) for allegedly turning a blind eye to foreign e-hailing platforms that were operating without proper authorisation.
Following an investigation, APAD concluded that both companies had breached licensing regulations under the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715). Specifically, they failed to ensure that all vehicles listed under their platforms had valid E-Hailing Vehicle Permits.
As someone who regularly switches between InDrive, Maxim, AirAsia Ride, and Grab, I can't deny that InDrive and Maxim often felt a bit scuffed. Their apps weren't exactly reassuring — offering inaccurate ETAs, missing driver photos, or incomplete license info.
Compared to Grab's more polished and secure interface, they seemed to cut corners in places where safety and transparency matter.
That said, it's hard to ignore why some users are worried. Grab may be the best choice, but its surge pricing during peak hours could be downright ridiculous. 2-km trips could cost you up to RM30 if luck is not on your side.
What made InDrive and Maxim appealing was their affordability, with InDrive even letting passengers haggle and agree on fares directly with drivers.
Loke did mention that both companies are free to file an appeal, but the final say remains in his hands. So what do you think — should they be given a second chance, or is it better we stick with fewer but more tightly regulated options on the road?
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