SIBU: Taxi operators play a crucial role for the tourism sector in the city, said Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng.
He said they are the front-line workers who welcome tourists from both domestic and international destinations.
“Taxi operators receive numerous tourists and introduce the history, culture, food, and local attractions of Sibu to them.
“This provides tourists with a more delightful and engaging travel experience,” he said, adding taxi operators therefore play a vital role in the tourism industry.
He made these remarks at a Chinese New Year Dinner organised by the Sibu Taxi Owners Association at a restaurant here recently.
Concurring with Chieng, Sibu MP Oscar Ling said the role of taxi operators is very important in providing a positive impression of Sibu to outsiders.
“Taxi drivers should use and strengthen their professional advantages to improve Sibu’s image and further promote Sibu,” he said.
Ling added that the friendliness of taxi drivers is also crucial in portraying a good image of the country’s culture in attracting foreign tourists.
According to Ling, such a portrayal can also provide a positive impression to outsiders about the people and the country.
However, in facing the challenge of e-hailing, he said, taxi drivers need to enhance their competitiveness.
“They can improve the quality of service and be more creative in generating income with something new, for example, in the use of technology,” he said.
