MALAYSIAN TAXI DRIVERS

My broadband connection is automatically enabled whenever I switch on the PC. The first thing that appears once the connection is established is my MSN messenger login page and windows live page. Usually it contains the daily highlights and some ads. The title that pulled my attention today was 'Malaysia's 'worst in the world' taxis tarnish national image'. After reading the news, it automatically reminded me about the bad experiences I had with some taxi drivers while I was still using public transport (thank god I don't have to use it anymore) a few years ago.

This used to happen during my college days. Since I was staying in a rented apartment which is located out of the campus, I became a frequent taxi passenger. The college is about 12 minutes walk from my apartment. However, due to severe laziness, I used to take a taxi. This usually happens during the 8 am classes. I wake up at 7.30 am, make a lot of noise to my homies whom are in the shower (getting ready for their 9 am classes) and rush myself. By the time I leave home it'll be 8 am. When I cross the road, it'll be 8.05 am. So, obviously I have no time to walk to class hence, taxis will be the best choice. None of the taxis used meter. Their standard charge for students to college is RM3-single passenger and RM1 for every subsequent passengers. The actual cost of the ride would only cost RM2.50.

The next frequent destination by the students would be the KTM Commuter Station (Batu Tiga). The rate charged is RM6. I think if it was according to the meter, it'll only cost around RM4. I had to experience this every weekend, during my way back to mum's house. So, every weekend, I used to spend RM12 (return) just for the taxi!Being a student, RM12 definitely is a big amount. There was once, it was raining so heavily that I was lazy to travel by train. So I asked the taxi driver how much will it cost to KL Sentral. He said RM35. By right, I think it should only cost around RM20+. I cancelled my plan and continued the journey via train.

Being a taxi passenger in Shah Alam for almost a year, I never met a single taxi driver who charged according to the meter. But at times I sympathize them and can't really put the blame on them. They drive a manual car the entire day and have to wait in a long queue for their gas supply. I don't feel they are being mean, its just that they are being selfish like any other businessman.