E-hailing platforms should consider offering women passengers the option of booking female drivers to strengthen safety and comfort when using the service, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said such a feature would give women greater choice over who drives them, particularly when safety and personal comfort are concerns.
Loke also proposed that operators introduce women-only carpooling, allowing female passengers to share rides exclusively with other women.
“This is one of the features I hope our women leaders can promote. When using an e-hailing service, passengers should have the option of choosing a female driver,” he said when officiating the DAP Women’s National Congress 2026 here today.
Turning to rail services, Loke said the government would continue strengthening measures to protect women passengers, including through women-only coaches.
He said the Transport Ministry frequently received complaints of sexual harassment on trains, particularly during peak periods, while women account for nearly two-thirds of rail passengers.
Beyond passenger safety, Loke said efforts to increase women’s participation in transport should also extend to sectors traditionally dominated by men, including aviation and maritime.
He stated opportunities should be based on ability rather than gender, adding that outdated stereotypes about women’s suitability for such roles must be challenged.
