E-hailing driver was fined RM2,000 for leaving a woman behind on the highway

In a shocking incident that has raised concerns about passenger safety, an e-hailing driver was fined RM2,000 for abandoning a woman on a highway. The incident, which took place on June 30, 2024, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for stricter regulations in the e-hailing industry.

The incident occurred when the driver, identified as Ahmad Faizal, left his passenger, Nurul Aini, stranded on the North-South Expressway after a dispute over the destination. According to Nurul, the driver became agitated when she requested a slight detour to avoid traffic congestion. "I was terrified and felt completely helpless," Nurul recounted. "He just stopped the car and told me to get out."

Legal Consequences

Ahmad Faizal was subsequently charged under Section 323 of the Penal Code for causing distress and endangering the passenger's safety. The court imposed a fine of RM2,000, emphasizing the severity of the offense. Magistrate Noor Aini Yusof stated, "Such behavior is unacceptable and poses a significant risk to passenger safety. The fine serves as a deterrent to prevent similar incidents in the future."

Public Reaction

The incident has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users expressing their outrage and calling for stricter regulations in the e-hailing industry. "This is unacceptable. E-hailing companies must ensure the safety of their passengers," tweeted one user. Another commented, "Drivers who behave in such a manner should be banned from the platform permanently."

Industry Response

In response to the incident, the e-hailing company involved issued a statement condemning the driver's actions and assuring the public that they are taking steps to prevent such incidents. "We deeply regret the distress caused to our passenger and have taken immediate action by suspending the driver. We are also reviewing our safety protocols to ensure such incidents do not occur in the future," the statement read.

Calls for Stricter Regulations

The incident has also prompted calls for stricter regulations and better enforcement in the e-hailing industry. Consumer rights advocate, Siti Zubaidah, emphasized the need for comprehensive background checks and regular training for drivers. "Passenger safety should be the top priority. E-hailing companies must implement stringent measures to ensure their drivers are well-trained and capable of handling various situations," she said.

The case of Ahmad Faizal and Nurul Aini highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures in the e-hailing industry. While the RM2,000 fine serves as a warning, it is crucial for companies and regulators to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers. As the industry continues to grow, maintaining high standards of safety and professionalism will be key to gaining and retaining public trust.