Illegal Taxi Tout at KLIA Charged Foreigner RM80 for Short Trip, Now Faces Heavy Penalties
A suspected illegal taxi driver operating at Kuala Lumpur International Airport has been detained by authorities after allegedly charging a foreign passenger an inflated fare for a very short journey between airport terminals.
The enforcement action was carried out during a monitoring operation by officers from Road Transport Department Malaysia at the airport’s Terminal 2. Officials confirmed that the suspect, believed to be operating without proper licensing, was stopped along with the vehicle used to transport passengers.
Authorities say the incident highlights ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal transport operators who target travellers arriving at the country’s busiest airport.
Driver Allegedly Approached Tourist and Offered RM80 Ride
According to preliminary investigations, the suspect approached an Indonesian traveller and offered a private ride between two terminals at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 and Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1.
The distance between the two terminals is only around five kilometres, but the driver allegedly quoted the passenger RM80 for the trip. Authorities believe the payment was intended to be made after reaching the destination.
During the operation, enforcement officers intercepted a Perodua Alza believed to have been used in the suspected illegal transport service. The driver was then taken in for further investigation.
Officials noted that such touts, commonly referred to locally as “ulat”, often target visitors unfamiliar with local transport options, persuading them to accept overpriced rides.
Offenders Could Face RM50,000 Fine or Jail Time
Authorities stated that individuals found guilty of providing unlicensed transport services may face severe legal consequences under the Land Public Transport Act 2010.
Under Section 205(1) of the legislation, offenders may be fined up to RM50,000, sentenced to imprisonment of up to five years, or both if convicted.
Investigators also noted that anyone assisting or facilitating such illegal activities could face additional charges under Section 243(1) of the same act.
The case remains under investigation as authorities continue gathering evidence.
Travellers Advised to Use Authorised Airport Transport
Following the incident, officials from Road Transport Department Malaysia reminded travellers to only use official transport services available at airport counters.
Passengers arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport are encouraged to book taxis through authorised service counters or use licensed e-hailing applications to avoid falling victim to illegal operators.
Authorities also encouraged members of the public to report suspected transport offences. Complaints can be submitted through the department’s official reporting channels, along with relevant details of the incident.
Enforcement teams said monitoring operations at the airport will continue to ensure passengers are protected from illegal transport activities and unfair pricing practices.