Malaysia’s rapid progress as a technologically advanced nation has transformed the way people move from one place to another. Along with the growth of smart cities and the widespread use of smartphones, e-hailing services in Malaysia such as Grab, AirAsia Ride, and InDrive are becoming increasingly popular among users. The modern lifestyle that emphasizes convenience, safety, and speed makes e-hailing the top choice, especially for the younger generation, urban workers, and tourists who wish to travel quickly and comfortably.

The growth of Malaysia’s e-hailing transport sector also aligns with the government’s efforts to advance the nation’s digital economy. According to reports by the The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and MDEC, the number of e-hailing drivers has increased by more than 150% since 2018, while over 5 million active users utilize these apps every month. This trend proves that e-hailing is not just an alternative to traditional taxis but a crucial part of Malaysia’s mobility transformation toward a Smart and Digitally Friendly Nation.

E-hailing Is Gaining Ground

Unlike traditional taxis, e-hailing offers instant booking, cashless payment, real-time tracking, and driver rating systems that enhance safety and user experience.

What Is E-hailing?

E-hailing is a transportation booking system via a digital application that allows users to book vehicles (such as cars, motorcycles, or vans) using a smartphone online.

In this system, the e-hailing app functions as an intermediary platform between passengers and licensed drivers. Users simply enter their current location and destination, and the app will locate nearby drivers while displaying the estimated fare and arrival time.

Advantages of E-hailing

• Easy & Fast Booking Simply open the app, select your destination, and a vehicle will arrive within minutes no need to wait by the roadside.
• Transparent & Controlled Pricing The fare is displayed before the trip begins, allowing users to know the exact amount to be paid without hidden charges.
• Cashless Payment Supports various payment methods such as E-wallets, debit/credit cards, and other secure digital transactions.
• Guaranteed Safety The app allows users to track rides in real-time, review driver profiles, and share their location with family members.
• Flexible Vehicle Options Offers various types of vehicles from economy to premium according to user comfort and budget.

Most Popular E-hailing Applications

Below is a list of the most widely used e-hailing apps in Malaysia. Ratings are based on Google Play downloads and may vary depending on the device used.

1. Grab

Grab is a multi-functional app designed to simplify users’ daily mobility. Starting as an e-hailing platform, Grab has evolved into a complete ecosystem that includes food and parcel delivery services such as GrabFood, GrabMart, GrabExpress, and Grab Intercity, which offers bus and ferry ticket bookings to over 30 destinations in Singapore and 11 states across Malaysia.

The most popular app in Malaysia covering transport, food, and parcel delivery.

Advantages: Integration with GrabPay for cashless payments and GrabRewards loyalty points.

2. Maxim

Offers some of the most affordable fares in the market, with the option to negotiate pricing with drivers before confirming the trip.

Advantages: No Extreme Price Surge (Peak Hour) Even during peak hours, Maxim’s prices are typically more stable and do not spike drastically.

3. inDrive

A multi-purpose application primarily focused on transporting passengers within specific areas. inDrive also offers intercity travel services, taking passengers from one city to another at affordable prices. Additionally, it provides parcel delivery services both small and bulk.

Advantages: Unique concept users can set and negotiate their own price before the driver accepts the trip.

4. Lalamove

Operating in Malaysia since 2018, Lalamove enables users to book motorcycles, cars, vans, or trucks for instant deliveries via its mobile app. Keeping up with technology trends, Lalamove has also introduced LalamoveRide, allowing users to book passenger rides from one location to another.

Advantages: Offers delivery options from motorcycles to 4-ton trucks with affordable rates ideal for both short and long-distance travel.

5. AirAsia Move

AirAsia is a trusted airline among Malaysians. Today, the company has developed an app that not only facilitates flight ticket purchases but also allows hotel and concert ticket bookings through its MoveTix feature. Connected with the AirAsia Super App ecosystem perfect for frequent flyers and travelers.

Advantages: Users can redeem or use AirAsia Points for travel discounts.

6. Bolt

Bolt is one of the largest global e-hailing applications, rapidly expanding in Malaysia, particularly within the Klang Valley area. The app has received positive responses for offering fast service and affordable fares.

Advantages: Competitive fares, large driver pool, and shorter waiting times.

Peak Hours

Peak Hours refer to periods when demand for e-hailing and delivery services increases significantly. During these times, more users book rides or place delivery orders, while the number of available drivers is limited. As a result, fares or delivery fees may increase slightly to balance the high demand.

Typical Peak Hours

• Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM): When people commute to work or school.
• Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): During after-work hours.
• Weekends or Public Holidays: When many people go out for leisure or travel.

Positive Impact of E-Hailing on the Nation

• Creates New Job Opportunities: Many individuals rely on e-hailing as their main or supplementary income source.
• Improves Mobility: Enables easy movement without owning a personal vehicle.
• Supports the Digital Economy: Encourages the use of technology and cashless payments.
• Reduces Urban Parking Congestion: More people choose e-hailing over driving themselves.
• Enhances Logistics Reach: Delivery apps like Lalamove help small businesses deliver goods faster and cheaper.

The Role of Traditional Taxis

Although e-hailing is gaining popularity, traditional taxis usually painted red and white remain relevant. Taxis are still essential in rural areas and airports where e-hailing coverage is sometimes limited. Additionally, taxis have licensed operations and fixed fare structures, making them a safe and convenient choice for tourists and senior citizens.

Taxis VS E-hailing: Who’s More Relevant Today?

• Changing Mobility Trends in Malaysia The emergence of e-hailing apps such as Grab, inDrive, and Maxim has changed the way Malaysians travel, replacing the traditional taxis that once dominated the market.
• Industry Data According to a Malay Mail (2024) report, the number of active taxis in Malaysia decreased from 120,000 to around 40,000 units after the rise of e-hailing in 2017.
• Strengths of Traditional Taxis Still the preferred choice for tourists in airports, hotels, and city centers licensed, easily recognizable, and with fixed fares.
• Advantages of E-Hailing Users can book rides via mobile apps with transparent fare estimates, various vehicle options, and cashless payment systems.
• Safety & Convenience E-hailing offers driver ratings, real-time tracking, and in-app customer support to enhance passenger safety.
• Blending Both Worlds Today, taxis and e-hailing are not competitors but complement each other within Malaysia’s transport system, providing citizens with more choices and flexibility.

Everyday Situations Where E-Hailing Saves the Day

• Too tired to drive: Many use e-hailing when they’re exhausted, want to avoid traffic jams, or don’t want the hassle of finding parking.
• No personal vehicle: Ideal for students, new workers, or individuals who have yet to own a car.
• Saves time and energy: No need to refuel, search for parking, or wait for public transport.
• Comfort: Passengers can review driver profiles, view fare estimates, and track rides in real time.
• Tourist alternative: Makes it easier for local and foreign tourists to travel without understanding public transport systems.
• Car breakdown: When your car breaks down or is in the workshop, e-hailing becomes the most practical option for commuting, errands, or getting home.

Car Breakdown?

Car broke down? How long will you rely on e-hailing? Contact Bateriku now we’ll take care of everything for you. Whether your car won’t start due to a dead battery, engine trouble, or running out of fuel by the roadside, the Bateriku team is ready to assist you quickly and professionally.

Bateriku is more than just a battery replacement service. We provide comprehensive roadside assistance to ensure you get back on the road safely and stress-free.

While your car is being repaired, you can continue your daily routine using e-hailing services to your preferred destinations. Once your car is ready, we’ll contact you and if you’d like, we can even deliver your car straight to your home.

Choose Bateriku the easy, fast, and reliable solution for all your car troubles.