PETALING JAYA, Oct 19 — The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) should screen taxi drivers for criminal records so as not to put passengers at risk, said the Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF).

“When a driver applies for a permit, his name should be screened and a background check conducted by both SPAD and the police. If he has a record, SPAD must not issue the permit,” the foundation’s vice-president, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, told Malay Mail.

He said taxi associations should also take a serious view of the problem.

With the increasing number of taxi drivers, they must look at taking a stand against rogue taxi drivers.

“The criminal activities are reflecting badly on those who are looking to make an honest living,” Lee said.

“It is not only the tourists who are affected but Malaysians as well.”

He admitted it is difficult to identify taxi drivers who could be bad hats, but taxi drivers in general and the public must be vigilant.

“If anyone comes across a rogue driver, he must immediately alert the authorities to ensure action can be taken swiftly,” he said.

Lee said taxis should display the police’s telephone numbers so those on board could alert the authorities if something was amiss.

The contact numbers of the police should be made available at hotels.

“There should be a booklet or leaflet, with police station numbers, given out to tourists and local residents. It does not mean our country is not safe but the numbers are purely to protect the passengers,” he said.

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) chief executive officer Datuk Paul Selvaraj urged SPAD to monitor taxi drivers regularly.

He said thorough checks must be made on their backgrounds.

“It is a serious issue. I hope SPAD will implement an effective system so that only reliable drivers are entitled to own taxi permits and be on the road,” he said.

“It is important to ensure that what happened will not recur.

“I suggest that they install an emergency button in each taxi. It may cost money but it is for the sake of the safety of passengers.”