E-Hailing Driver Loses PSV Licence Following Alleged Sexual Harassment Incident in Johor Baru

KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry has cancelled the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence of an e-hailing driver accused of sexually harassing a female passenger during a trip in Johor Baru, effectively barring him from operating on any ride-hailing platform.

In a statement issued on Tuesday (Feb 3), the ministry said the cancellation means the driver is no longer permitted to provide services on any e-hailing application.

The action follows the circulation of a video on social media on Sunday (Feb 1), which allegedly captured the incident during a ride from Taman Mount Austin to R&F Mall, near the Johor Causeway.

The video, shared online by a user claiming to be the victim’s sibling, showed the driver reaching towards the back seat while speaking to the passenger in Mandarin. Two videos were uploaded along with details of the journey.

In the footage, the driver’s arm appears to move towards the passenger’s thigh as he is heard asking about her age and whether she could speak Mandarin. The passenger is seen using her hand to block the advance and clutching her clothing while remaining silent.

Johor Baru police have reportedly launched an investigation into the video and the alleged incident.

The Transport Ministry said it takes passenger safety seriously and will not tolerate any conduct that endangers or intimidates commuters. Through the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), the ministry will summon all e-hailing operators to submit an action plan aimed at strengthening passenger safety measures.

“We will not tolerate any behavior that compromises passenger safety and are prepared to support the victim to ensure appropriate police action is taken against the perpetrator,” the ministry said.