Malaysia’s Transport Ministry (JPJ) announced that it would increase benefits as well as offer language and etiquette training for its taxi drivers. These reforms were created in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), the country’s upcoming tourism program.
NEW BENEFITS FOR TAXI DRIVERS
Transport minister Anthony Loke announced last 28 July that they will require language and driver etiquette training for Malaysia’s taxi drivers. The courses include communication classes, like basic English and other common languages, as well as customer service training and professionalism etiquette classes.
As the frontline of Malaysia’s tourism industry, Loke emphasised the role of taxi drivers in shaping the country’s image. “These taxi drivers are not just drivers, they are also the first ambassadors of the country to tourists,” he said.
Additionally, taxi drivers can enjoy an increased contribution incentive up to 30 per cent for the social security (Perkeso). JPJ added this reform to further maintain the welfare of taxi drivers across the country.
The transport minister previously met with the Malaysia Taxi, Rental Car, Limousine, and Airport Taxi Association (GTSM) at their third annual meeting. This meeting allowed Loke to confer with the country’s transportation industry.
“These reforms are ongoing, and I will continue to work with this industry to strengthen the public transport sector for the benefit of the people,” wrote Loke in a Facebook post.
VISIT MALAYSIA 2026
Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign was launched earlier in January 2025. It is one of many key components of Malaysia’s national agenda and aims to “increase tourism revenue, strengthen Malaysia’s global tourism competitiveness, and ultimately position the sector as one of the largest contributors to the country’s GDP.”
The program is set to create new job opportunities while boosting Malaysia’s reputation and strengthen local culture. Its ultimate goal is to cater to 35.6 million tourists and earn as much as MYR 147.1 billion (AUD 53 billion) in revenue.
With a structured plan and robust marketing campaign, the Malaysian government signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) with several tourism, hospitality, and travel organisations. Aside from tourism, the VM2026 project will span across various industry sectors, such as retail, technology, and of course, transportation.
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