A recent incident has sparked outrage online after an e-hailing driver began charging passengers extra for the use of air conditioning in his vehicle. The controversy follows a viral story of a Nasi Lemak restaurant charging a fee for air con usage, but this latest case has raised eyebrows due to the seemingly excessive charges.
Photo via X (@MALAYSIAVIRALLL)
The incident came to light through a post on X by MALAYSIAVIRALLL, where a passenger shared a photo of a notice in the backseat of an e-hailing vehicle. The notice outlined the additional costs passengers would incur for using the air con, with different charges based on the fan speed.
For just the basic air con, passengers are required to pay RM20. Should they prefer a cooler ride with higher fan speeds, the cost increases: RM25 for fan speed 2, and RM30 for fan speed 3. Interestingly, passengers seated in the front passenger seat can share the air con without additional charges, but those in the backseat will need to pay if they want to use it.
The driver’s notice behind the front seat reads: “Basic air-con is provided in front.” While some people have criticised the charges as excessive, one passenger noted, “It would’ve been acceptable if it was RM1 or RM2. But this is RM20.”
Others shared their frustrations online, with one user comparing it to renting a studio unit and being charged exorbitantly for minimal amenities, “I would’ve just asked the driver to shut off the air con and roll the windows up.”
Another person shared a similar experience in Penang, remarking that the vehicle was in poor condition despite the extra charges.
What do you think of these extra charges for air con use? Is it an overstep, or just a reflection of modern consumerism?
