Loke says RM1,000 driver aid not a Melaka poll sweetener, rollout continues nationwide

Melaka Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook has denied allegations that the RM1,000 special financial assistance provided to taxi, rental car, and school bus drivers is a tactic to attract votes ahead of the upcoming Melaka state election. The incentive is being rolled out nationwide following its announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the presentation of the Budget 2027 in Parliament.

Loke clarified that the assistance is not limited to just Melaka, but is available to all taxi drivers across the country. He distributed vouchers worth RM1,000 to 283 taxi and rental car drivers at the CMI Complex Auditorium in Ayer Keroh today, with around 12,000 drivers expected to receive the assistance this week. The remaining recipients will either receive the funds through electronic fund transfer or direct bank transfer.

Loke emphasized that as long as they possess a valid driver's card, verified by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), drivers can register their names in the system and receive the assistance. He also mentioned that starting today, the financial aid will be credited directly to the bank accounts of over 12,000 recipients to alleviate their financial burden.