Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai has called on all taxi drivers to support the deregulation in the taxi industry to ensure that there will be a level playing field for themselves and for the Uber and GrabCar drivers.

"It is high time for taxi drivers to be more competitive and flexible, especially after the Cabinet decided to legalise Uber and GrabCar in Malaysia.

"They (taxi operators) should not cease their operations just because they have to compete with Uber and GrabCar. This is because technology and new applications always advancing."

He said this to reporters after jointly-officiating the archway of the Sheng Fong Kong Temple, together with the Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Mah Siew Keong, here yesterday.

On Saturday, Liow said apart from deregulating the taxi industry, additional regulations would also be imposed on Uber and GrabCar drivers.

The minister said the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) would announced the new regulations soon.

Asked on the Finance Ministry's move to look into suitable taxation mechanism for the Uber and GrabCar services, Liow said the Transport Ministry had no objection on the matter.

"It is up to the Finance Ministry as it is under their portfolio," he said.

At present, there are approximately 77,000 registered taxi drivers nationwide.