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| A lecturer from Faculty pf Economic and Business of University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), Chalimatuz Sa’diyah, S.E., (Photo: Special) |
In 2023, Ojek online (Ojol) (trans: the online motorcycle taxi) industry is confronted with a big problem. That is the increased discounted tariff imposed by the service provider platform. Many Ojol drivers then decided to quit. This situation raises serious concerns regarding drivers' welfare and the ojol industry's stability.
This phenomenon also attracted the attention of a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), Chalimatuz Sa'diyah, S.E., M.M. She said that the increase in discount rates in the ojol industry is influenced by many factors. Starting from demand, supply of operational costs, to company profits.Sebagai contoh, jika permintaan layanan ojol meningkat, perusahaan juga perlu menyesuaikan tarif potongan agar tetap menghasilkan keuntungan yang layak. Begitu juga sebaliknya.
Rising discount rates create an imbalance. Drivers feel trapped and have a high economic dependence on the platform. As a result, they think they need more control over the fare. This condition also exacerbates income inequality and social inequality in society.
"Ojol drivers are usually at a fairly low level of education or skills. They are often unable to find additional employment," said the lecturer, who is familiarly called Chaca.
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The reduction of Ojol drivers also impacts community mobility and regional economic growth. Ojol drivers play an important role in facilitating the mobility of individuals who do not own private vehicles. Therefore, policy alternatives are needed to maintain the Ojol industry's sustainability and ensure the drivers' welfare.
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"In regulating discounted fares, the government needs to regulate it by considering fairness for drivers and creating a sustainable working environment, while ensuring fair access to workers' rights," she said.
Chacha emphasized that facing this kind of challenge requires an evaluation of the policies that have been running. The main goal is equality, welfare, and sustainability in the online ojek industry.
"Thus, a favorable environment will be created for all parties involved. Including online ojek drivers, service provider platforms, and the user community," she concluded. (Put/Lai/Wil)
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