How to Start a Taxi Business in Kota Bharu: A Detailed Blueprint
Starting a taxi business in Kota Bharu, the capital of Kelantan, Malaysia, involves several steps, from understanding regulations to fleet management. Here’s a detailed blueprint to guide you through the process:
🔹 1. Market Research & Business Plan
A. Market Research
- Analyze demand for taxis in Kota Bharu (especially near airports, bus terminals, hospitals, and tourist areas).
- Identify competitors like ride-hailing services (Grab, Maxim, etc.).
- Understand passenger demographics and peak hours.
B. Business Plan
- Define your target market (locals, tourists, students, etc.).
- Decide between traditional taxi service or e-hailing integration.
- Estimate startup and operational costs.
- Create revenue projections and break-even analysis.
🔹 2. Choose a Business Structure
- Sole Proprietorship (simpler setup, but full liability).
- Partnership (shared responsibility and profit).
- Sdn Bhd (Private Limited Company) — Ideal for scalability and liability protection.
Register your business with SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia).
🔹 3. Legal Requirements & Licensing
A. Business Registration
B. Taxi Operator’s License
Apply through APAD (Agensi Pengangkutan Awam Darat):
- Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) for taxis.
- Fulfill conditions for public service vehicles.
C. Vehicle Licensing & Permits
- Vehicles must be registered for commercial use.
- Obtain Permit Teksi Individu or Syarikat from APAD.
- Install a meter and GPS tracking system.
🔹 4. Fleet & Drivers
A. Vehicle Acquisition
- Purchase or lease vehicles (Toyota Innova, Proton Exora, etc.).
- Ensure vehicles meet commercial and safety standards.
B. Hire Qualified Drivers
- Drivers must have:
- GDL (Goods Driving License) or PSV (Public Service Vehicle) license.
- Clean driving record.
- Local knowledge and good customer service skills.
Provide uniforms, ID badges, and driver training.
🔹 5. Operations Setup
A. Office Setup
- Secure a small office for dispatch and administration.
- Set up phone lines, booking system, and dispatch software.
B. Digital Integration
- Develop a simple app or partner with ride-hailing platforms (e.g., Grab, MyCar).
- Enable online bookings, GPS tracking, and e-payments.
🔹 6. Marketing & Branding
- Branding: logo, vehicle decals, driver uniforms.
- Promote through:
- Flyers and banners.
- Tourism partnerships.
- Google My Business and social media.
- Offer promotions (first ride free, loyalty cards, etc.).
🔹 7. Finances & Insurance
- Open a business bank account.
- Set up accounting (use tools like QuickBooks, Xero).
- Get comprehensive commercial vehicle insurance.
- Budget for:
- Fuel
- Maintenance
- Staff salaries
- Licensing renewals
🔹 8. Compliance & Maintenance
- Maintain vehicle inspection schedules (PUSPAKOM checks).
- Renew licenses (PSV, vehicle permits).
- Keep logs of mileage, fuel, service history.
Bonus Tips:
- Offer specialized services (airport transfers, medical transport, student rides).
- Join local taxi associations for support and network benefits.
- Monitor customer feedback and respond quickly.
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