Throw The Book At Them Public Urges Stiff Penalty For Taxi Tout Couple Who Extorted Chinese Tourists

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“IMPOSE heavy punishment as a warning to other touts.”
Short of sending them to the gallows, many online commenters were clear in wanting the authorities to take stern action against a taxi tout couple accused of attempting to extort two mainland China tourists.
The incident which apparently occurred on Sept 15 saw two Chinese tourists charged an extortionate RM836 for a cab ride from KLIA2 to their hotel although an original fare of RM60 had been agreed upon.
The tourists were released from the locked car after they managed to catch attention of the hotel staff but not before they were physically assaulted. The ticket touts fled when the cops arrived.

A formal complaint was filed and – lo and behold – the extortionist couple have been apprehended, thanks to a viral clip of the incident clearly showing their faces as well as vehicle registration number.
The arrest has been widely shared on social media with many praising the authorities for their swift action as it was necessary to protect the image of the country as a safe holiday destination. It even appeared on Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook’s Facebook (FB) page.

Applauding the Road Transport Department (JPJ) for its decisive action in nabbing the suspects, the Seremban MP further proclaimed that there would be no leniency in dealing with illegal taxi that touts tarnish the nation’s image.
This sentiment was shared by many commenters who also concurred that the actions of such taxi touts have gravely affected the hospitality and tourism industry which is still struggling to find its feet post-COVID-19.

Some recommended stiff penalties to act as deterrent. These include the seizure and forfeiture of the vehicle as well as suspension of the accused’s driver’s license.

The successful ops to nab the suspects was also shared on Meanwhile in Malaysia FB forum with many commenters applauding the authorities for their speedy response.


However, a few observers noted that the damage had already been done as the victims had uploaded the clip of the incident onto social media.
This would have caught the attention of many in China who would by now be thinking twice about visiting Malaysia which is in the midst of ushering Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY 2026).


The calls for heavy punishment were also heard here with one counselling that the taxi touts be charged with attempted kidnapping alongside extortion.

Few things to note.
Firstly, it is good that the authorities acted swiftly. This is publicity that the country does not need ahead of VMY 2026. Furthermore, it affects tourists from the largest market which Malaysia is hoping to further tap to revitalise the hospitality and tourism industry.

Secondly, as pointed out, taxi touts are not a new phenomenon in Malaysia, especially at airports. In the age of social media, such activities can greatly harm the country’s reputation as a safe and welcoming tourist destination.

Thirdly, the smart phone is now a truly useful weapon, especially in combating criminals taking advantage of hapless foreigners. Viral clips such as this are useful evidence in shutting down the illicit taxi trade.

Let’s hope this incident will be the start of stricter enforcement. –  Focus Malaysia

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