Latest news with #illegaloperators
Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Licensed taxis struggle as illegal cross-border operators dominate Singapore-Johor run
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 — Licensed cross-border taxi drivers in Singapore and Johor Bahru say they are struggling to survive as illegal operators continue to undercut them with door-to-door services. At Ban San Street Terminal in Singapore, drivers wait hours with no passengers, while across the Causeway, the situation at Larkin Sentral is no better. Veteran Singaporean driver Haniff Mahbob said, 'There are only drivers here and no passengers,' describing the bleak state of the trade post-pandemic. Many licensed drivers blame the rise of illegal private vehicles that pick up passengers directly from homes and drop them anywhere across the border, Singapore's CNA reported. Under current rules, Singapore and Malaysia allow licensed taxis to operate across the border only between designated points, severely limiting their flexibility. Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) has confirmed there are only about 300 licensed cross-border taxi drivers still operating under the bilateral scheme. The LTA has stepped up enforcement against illegal services, impounding 19 vehicles recently and continuing patrols at key locations like Changi Airport and Gardens by the Bay. Despite daily border crossings exceeding 578,000, licensed taxi drivers say they wait hours for a single fare due to falling demand. Singaporean driver Mohamed Yazid said illegal operators 'are stealing my passengers, my livelihood,' echoing calls for greater enforcement and reform. Experts say the rigidity of the system is a major deterrent for passengers, who prefer services that offer full-day, door-to-door convenience. Associate Professor Walter Theseira from the Singapore University of Social Sciences said, 'What [passengers] clearly want is a service that picks them up and delivers them door-to-door.' Some passengers say they prefer licensed cabs for safety, but many are deterred by the fixed routes, inconvenient terminals, and rigid fare structures. Calls are growing for both countries to allow licensed cross-border taxis to use ride-hailing platforms and expand their operating points. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Onn Hafiz Ghazi has proposed liberalising ride-hailing across the border as part of broader plans to boost tourism under Visit Johor 2026. However, taxi drivers warn that liberalisation could worsen competition, flooding the market without increasing passenger demand. Experts say without flexibility on pricing and routes, licensed cross-border taxis may continue to decline, unable to meet modern travel expectations.
The Herald
01-07-2025
- The Herald
Why it's not worth buying 'cheap' gas canister refills
'Discount prices' and incorrectly refilled gas cylinders can put lives and property at risk. Here are the reasons it may actually not be a bargain and the warning signs to look out for. 'When family safety is at stake, shortcuts can prove far more costly than any initial savings,' says Jeremie Tromp from Easigas. 'Legal requirements mandate that gas cylinders be filled exclusively by trained, certified professionals adhering to strict safety protocols. However, illegal operators disregard these standards, cutting corners and tampering with contents to offer cylinder refills at reduced prices.' Overfilled cylinders increase pressure to dangerous levels, making them unstable. Even minor impacts, temperature changes, or mishandling can lead to leaks. Contaminated gas is another hazard. Tromp says illegal operators often add water, paraffin, or other substances to increase cylinder weight. 'These mixtures burn inefficiently, damage appliances and compromise seals, creating hidden leaks that endanger homes and occupants.' Cylinders may also be underfilled to appear like a better deal but actually contain less gas than advertised, forcing consumers to refill more frequently and spend more overall. 'Contaminated fuel can destroy a R3,000 gas stove, while hidden leaks can trigger fires,' he says. 'Insurance companies may likely repudiate claims when investigations reveal the use of illegally refilled cylinders. Families have lost their homes entirely. The question isn't whether this could happen to you — it's whether you're prepared to risk everything you own.' The risks extend beyond individual homes to entire communities, he says. Illegal operators often transport numerous improperly secured cylinders on vehicles without adequate safety measures. 'A pothole or sudden turn could damage a valve, creating a mobile hazard on public roads,' he says. 'These operators also store hundreds of cylinders in cramped garages or makeshift workshops. One accident could devastate an entire neighbourhood.' Red flags for consumers to watch out for: Prices significantly below market rates No receipts, documentation, or certification proof Seals that don't match the cylinder brand Blank or generic neck rings (legitimate cylinders display company name, weight, serial number and country of origin) Multiple brands delivered from the same vehicle. 'If something appears questionable, it likely is,' advises Tromp. If you believe your cylinder has been illegally refilled, do not ignite the gas or handle the cylinder roughly. Contact a licensed gas supplier to safely remove and replace the cylinder or return the cylinder to the purchase point. Report the seller to your local municipality or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association. It is also advisable to alert your community through appropriate channels so they do not fall for the same 'deal'. TimesLIVE
CTV News
13-05-2025
- CTV News
Repeat offender convicted for illegal ride-hailing in Richmond, RCMP say
File image: Richmond RCMP crack down on illegal ride-hailing operators on Feb. 8, 2025. (Handout)
