KUALA LUMPUR: Russian-founded e-hailing service inDrive has moved swiftly to tighten its compliance systems after an administrative lapse earlier this year exposed gaps in driver documentation.

Speaking at a press conference today, inDrive Malaysia country lead Govind Kumaar said the issue prompted a full-scale internal review, leading to major enhancements in the company's driver onboarding and verification processes.

"There was an administrative issue earlier this year, but we have identified the root cause and worked hand in hand with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to correct it," Govind said.

He added that the company is now focused on reinforcing its internal safeguards to ensure full and ongoing compliance.

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inDrive driver operations manager Azlan Anwar also confirmed that all active drivers on the platform are now fully compliant with Malaysian regulatory requirements.

"Today, all our active drivers hold valid e-hailing vehicle permits (EVP), public service vehicle (PSV) licences, and e-hailing insurance.

"Prior to the issue, we now take full corrective measures, including real-time data sharing, enhanced document verification, internal audits, and also streamlined the re-verification process," Azlan said.

In April this year, inDrive was issued a notice of revocation by APAD due to non-compliance related to EVP documentation.

Following its corrective actions, inDrive's operating status was formally reinstated on July 24, with official approval from both APAD and the Transport Ministry to fully resume operations.

Govind also addressed concerns about inDrive's peer-to-peer pricing mechanism, which enables passengers and drivers to mutually agree on fares before a ride begins.

"This system empowers both parties. No driver is forced to accept a fare, and no rider is forced to pay more than they agree to. It's transparent, fair, and beneficial, especially in price-sensitive markets," Govind added.

Looking ahead, inDrive aims to strengthen platform integrity and expand its presence in Malaysia, with a target of 40,000 active drivers by the end of 2025.

In addition, the company plans to roll out a mobility initiative for persons with disabilities to improve inclusivity and accessibility within the local ride-hailing ecosystem.

"We are not only focused on compliance, but also on uplifting service quality through continuous driver development in Malaysia.

"What happened earlier was a lesson. But we have responded by evolving, technologically, operationally, and culturally," Govind said.