RM1,000 lifeline: Sabah taxi drivers get first-ever cash aid as passengers dwindle

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 8 — The one-off RM1,000 Special Financial Assistance under Budget 2027 has provided a much-needed lifeline for Sabah's taxi drivers, whose earnings have been eroded by fierce competition from alternative modes of transport. The aid will help drivers manage their daily expenses as they grapple with the rising cost of living.

Azizarjan Japar, a 43-year-old mother of four and taxi driver, highlighted the importance of the assistance in easing her family's financial burden, particularly in covering her children's school and daily needs. Veteran driver Erwandy Rani, who has been driving full-time since 1984, expressed his gratitude for the recognition of his decades of service.

He lamented the sharp decline in passenger numbers, which have left him with minimal income and forced him to pay for his own fuel despite earning insufficient fares. Abdul Patta Anbotika, another veteran driver, noted the stark contrast between the earnings of taxi drivers in the past and today, emphasizing the government's acknowledgment of the challenges faced by veteran drivers.

With over 50% drop in daily earnings, these drivers often wait hours at taxi stands just to pick up a passenger. As part of Budget 2027, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the special cash assistance to directly channel the country's wealth to the people, aiming to strengthen the taxi service in the long term.