LETTER | I refer to the Malaysiakini report Gov't to impose taxi conditions on e-hailing services.

The newly minted transport minister has laid down the law that e-hailing vehicles must comply with pretty much the same regulations as licensed taxis.

For the time being, we shall ignore the fact that these are two different animals and the minister's call is pretty much the demise of e-hailing services which are meant to be ad hoc and help provide an alternative income to wage-earners.

What irks me is why the authorities even want to make e-hailing like regular taxis when taxis are well known for their sloppiness, arrogance and general lack of cleanliness in addition to often being run by rent-seekers.

Why don’t they demand taxis up they act and respond on predetermined terms and on call, like how e-hailing does?

I am all for a level playing field if the products are on par.

The minister cannot be unaware that taxis in Malaysia disappoint on so many levels.

If he doesn't know that yet, please hail a taxi at any mall, starting with KLCC and meet the taxi thugs, Minister.

Then tell us if the nation needs two similar services.

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