Having been a cabby for both Tibs (now known as SMRT) and Comfort Delgro for five years, my views and suggestions are:

Firstly, it is still too early to tell whether the move by the taxi operator is a success. What is regrettable is that cabbies were not involved or engaged in the discussion of the fare hikes, and how best to solve the problem together.

Secondly, I strongly believe that apart from fare hikes, have the taxi companies considered the importance of in-house training on customer service for its hirers and relief drivers? The importance of good professional service must not be underestimated. Throughout my five years on the job, I always have the consumer's welfare and safety at heart. In return, when they alighted, they either gave me a smile or rewarded me with tips.

Thirdly, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the taxi companies should consider the taxi service as a component of the public transport system, not as a premium chauffeur service. Hence, ERP charges (like buses) should be waived to provide incentive to and encourage taxi drivers to go into the city during peak hours to address the problem of shortage.

Fourthly, as of March 2008, taxis can pick up passengers only at designated taxi stands in the city area. The city peak hour surcharge of $3 can therefore be done away with, and replaced with the same surcharge whenever the taxi picks up passengers at the designated taxi stands.

Next, public feedback must be taken seriously by all taxi companies and used to improve taxi services.

Last but not least, let us be sincere and admit that whatever changes to a system, there will be no such thing as a perfect system that can please all stakeholders. If there is cooperation and a renewed understanding among all the stakeholders, the taxi industry can live up to Singapore's reputation as a city of excellence and efficiency.

Raymond Lo Wan Mou