MOT Cracks Down On KLIA Taxi Touts, Vows Zero Tolerance

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has issued a stern warning that it will not tolerate taxi touting activities at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2, following a recent incident that tarnished the country’s image and reputation.

In fact, Minister Anthony Loke said the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has arrested a taxi tout involved in deceiving a foreign tourist at KLIA Terminal 2 with a highly inflated fare.

“Two days ago, a viral social media post reported that a foreign tourist was cheated by a taxi tout at KLIA T2. He was initially offered a fare of RM60, but was later forced to pay RM800 before being allowed to leave the car.

“I immediately instructed JPJ to track down the vehicle involved. Following an undercover operation at KLIA yesterday, JPJ successfully apprehended the driver and seized the vehicle on the spot. An investigation paper has been opened for further action,” he posted on Facebook today.

Loke also shared photos of the seized car and commended JPJ for its swift response to the incident.

The incident, which went viral on Sept 15, involved a foreign visitor who was looking for a bus to his hotel in Kuala Lumpur. He was approached by a local man who offered a taxi ride for RM60.

However, upon arrival near the hotel, the driver refused to stop. Instead, he diverted to a secluded area and demanded a staggering RM836, which was over 14 times the originally agreed fare, before letting the passenger go.

-- BERNAMA