He said they should not view e-hailing app services as a threat to their current taxi services and income.

“In fact, the e-hailing service can make the taxi industry more comprehensive.

“Passengers these days want better services. They want to be sure they are paying for the service at an appropriate price, without additional charges,” he said after launching an e-hailing service for Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) taxi operators here.

Loke was responding to the protest by a group of Penang airport taxi drivers yesterday, calling on the government to review the implementation of e-hailing services, which they claim has affected their source of income.

He said the government was aware of the taxi drivers’ grouses against e-hailing services.

“We urge them to improve their services through technology.

“Today, there is a company which has created an e-haling app and there may be more in the future,” Loke said.

A group of taxi drivers in Klang Valley said they will be calling for a mass demonstration next week (Dec 19) over Loke’s alleged failure to address drivers’ concerns with regard to e-hailing services.

Previously, Loke had said the government will regulate e-hailing services from July 12 to ensure a level playing field for both e-hailing drivers and conventional taxi drivers.

He also said vehicles older than three years would have to undergo annual inspections at Puspakom, the computerised vehicle inspection facility. An inspection will cost RM55.

Some e-hailing drivers have said they may stop driving if they are subjected to such regulations.