KUALA LUMPUR – Russian-based e-hailing platform Maxim says it is in discussions with the relevant authorities to “promptly resolve” the termination of its operating licence, amid an ongoing regulatory crackdown on non-compliant ride-hailing operators in Malaysia.
Responding to Scoop’s May 8 report on the revocation of its Intermediation Business Licence (IBL), the company said it is engaging with stakeholders “while maintaining the goodwill and reputation” it has built in Malaysia over the past five years.
“We are currently discussing with the relevant authorities how to promptly resolve this,” the company said in a statement to Scoop, adding that its services remain available throughout the country for now.
On April 21, the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) revoked Maxim’s Intermediation Business Licence (IBL) after determining that the company had failed to meet licensing conditions under the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715).
The revocation means Maxim must cease all operations involving vehicles registered under the revoked licence by July 24. The company has also been ordered to return its original IBL to Apad within 14 days of the termination notice.
A key violation cited was its failure to ensure that all vehicles operating under its platform held valid e-Hailing Vehicle Permits (EVPs), a mandatory requirement for e-hailing services.
This enforcement action follows a similar move against another Russian-headquartered platform, inDrive, which was also issued a termination notice effective the same date, July 24.
Both companies had previously received multiple show-cause letters, and enforcement checks since 2023 uncovered repeated breaches, including drivers operating without proper documentation in areas such as Putrajaya and Kuantan.
In its response, Maxim defended its compliance measures, saying that drivers undergo inspection by its officers to ensure they meet the requirements set by Apad and the Transport Ministry.
The company said it has also partnered with driving schools and the Road Transport Department to support driver training and licensing.
Maxim said public safety has always been a top priority and reiterated its commitment to legal compliance and cooperation with the government.
The IBL is a mandatory licence for all e-hailing operators in Malaysia. Any breach of its conditions can lead to suspension or termination, effectively barring a platform from offering ride-hailing services in the country. – May 15, 2025