Uber Welcomes Budget 2017’s RM4,000 Rebate And BRIM Aid For Purchase Of Proton Iriz

Following Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak’s announcement that BR1M recipients will soon be able to use their handout as downpayment for a Proton Iriz with a RM4,000 rebate, Uber Malaysia has announced that it welcomes the recognition that Uber can play a role in uplifting the lives of everyday Malaysians.

In statement released to the press late evening, Leon Foong, General Manager, Uber Malaysia said:

“We are delighted that the Government and Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak have recognised how Uber can positively impact the socioeconomic status of Malaysians in the B40 segment. By providing the choice to earn at the touch of a button to Malaysians from all walks of life, driver-partners can provide for themselves and their families, as well as have greater independence to pursue their dreams.

“We are also thrilled to be engaging Proton, the national car manufacturer, and as a partner, and will make an announcement with more details soon. This is the first of its kind in the world for Uber. Just as Uber has been a key pioneer in the ridesharing industry, Proton has also pioneered the automotive industry in Malaysia. We share the same vision to drive Malaysia forward through technological innovation and creating economic opportunities.

“The initiative clearly provides tangible growth and economic empowerment. It is also a clear win for the ridesharing industry and shows forward-thinking leadership. We commend the Malaysian Government for this astute, people-centric Budget!

“Wherever we operate, Uber has positively impacted people and cities and we have positively contributed to the local economy. Ridesharing is here to stay and Uber will certainly continue to do our part in improving urban mobility in Malaysia.”

Earlier today, Prime Minister had in his Budget 2017 speech said that drivers of ride-sharing apps like Uber have the potential to earn up to RM1,500 a month if the drive part-time between 10 and 40 hours a week, while full-time drivers who work over 40 hours a week can earn up to RM4,300.

The initiative is aimed at improving the income levels of B40 Malaysians (bottom 40 percent household income group. Only BR1M recipients who don’t already own a car are allowed to use their BR1M handout as a downpayment for a Proton Iriz with RM4,000 rebate. 

The state-owned investment arm Khazanah Nasional has indirect interest in Uber Technologies Inc via global growth equity investment General Atlantic LLC, while Malaysia’s second-largest pension fund, Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP) has reportedly investing over RM120 million in Uber.