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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