KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 23): Grab said today it strongly recommends that Malaysia's Public Service Vehicle (PSV) regulations mandate the development of a separate set of stringent, motorcycle-specific safety features to protect the public if the country chooses to embrace motorcycle ride-hailing as a core mode of transport.

Grab Malaysia head Sean Goh said in a statement today the ride-hailing service provider is prepared to implement its regional safety product enhancements and innovations for motorcycles.

"Grab notes the Cabinet's in-principle support for the on-demand economy via motorcycles in Malaysia, as well as the safety concerns of the same," Goh said.

Abroad, he claims that Grab is the number one motorcycle ride-hailing service in Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand.

"While the (Malaysian) government considers the legalisation of motorcycle ride-hailing in Malaysia, we believe it is important to address the single most critical aspect of this service — the safety of motorcyclists, passengers and the broader community — taking into account local road infrastructure, traffic conditions and safety records," Goh said.

In Malaysia, he said Grab has created income opportunities for over 10,000 motorcycle partners through its GrabFood and GrabExpress services across the Klang Valley, Kuching, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Melaka and Johor Bahru.

"We will continue to create more income opportunities for all Malaysians, including youths, persons with disabilities and others looking for flexible opportunities," Goh said.