The Future Of Local Ride Hailing Is Female & It’s Already Here

By Lara Kramer  •  04 Mar 2025 in Features

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For years, the ride-hailing (e-hailing) industry has been largely male-driven, with women making up only a small fraction of drivers. However, times are changing.

With greater workplace flexibility, improved safety measures, and shifting passenger expectations, more women in Malaysia are getting behind the wheel—challenging industry norms and redefining financial independence.

According to inDrive’s latest data, women accounted for 21% of total rides in Malaysia during the first quarter of 2024, and this number continues to climb. Even more notably, female drivers saw a 53% increase in earnings compared to the previous year, proving that ride-hailing is not just a side hustle but a serious income opportunity. These trends mark a broader shift toward inclusivity and economic empowerment, particularly in the gig economy.

Ride-Hailing As A Path To Economic Independence

For many women, driving isn’t just about earning a pay check—it’s about financial freedom. The flexibility of ride-hailing allows them to set their own schedules, making it an ideal option for single mothers, caregivers, and those juggling multiple responsibilities.

Beyond flexibility, the earning potential is significant. Some female drivers report daily incomes of RM300–RM500, demonstrating the viability of this work. While fuel costs and platform commission fees impact take-home pay, industry-wide efforts to promote fair wages and long-term financial stability will be key to attracting and retaining women drivers. Ride-hailing platforms that invest in incentives, equitable pay structures, and financial planning tools will ultimately foster greater gender diversity in the workforce.

As more women step into the driver’s seat, passenger confidence is also increasing—especially for female riders.

Many women feel safer traveling with female drivers, particularly when riding alone or late at night. This shift highlights the growing demand for gender-conscious mobility solutions.

To create a safer environment for both drivers and passengers, ride-hailing platforms must continue prioritising female driver recruitment, real-time ride tracking, and security features like emergency response buttons. By fostering an ecosystem of trust and inclusivity, the industry can encourage more women to participate, strengthening the overall ride-hailing experience.

The push for greater female representation in ride-hailing shouldn’t stop at driving—it must extend to leadership and policymaking. When women are included in decision-making roles, they can advocate for policies that enhance safety, economic equity, and overall working conditions. Companies that champion women in leadership will play a crucial role in ensuring that female drivers don’t just enter the industry but thrive in it.

This International Women’s Day, it’s important to recognise the women who are breaking barriers in ride-hailing and beyond.

By continuing to support their participation at all levels—from drivers to industry leaders—we can drive meaningful change toward a more inclusive and equitable mobility sector. The road ahead is promising, and women are taking the wheel to steer the industry in a new direction.

This article is based on insights from a piece by Shaerine Iriwna Kaur, Communications Manager SEA of inDrive.

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