Go-Jek launches portal for Singapore drivers to pre-register

GO-JEK on Monday launched a "GOJEK" portal for Singapore drivers to pre-register to use its platform - evidence that the Jakarta-based startup will soon arrive in the Republic and offer long-awaited competition to the ride-hailing market, which is dominated by Singapore-based Grab.

The multi-platform tech company said: "By signing up, drivers will have the opportunity to be among GOJEK's first driver-partners in Singapore."

Over the coming weeks, interested drivers who provide their contact details will receive notifications from the company with details and next steps on how to apply to join the GOJEK platform when the company launches.

A spokesman said: "There has been a huge amount of driver interest here in Singapore and we are pleased to take this important first step toward driver recruitment.

"At GOJEK, we understand that driver-partners are crucial to successful operations, which is why we're looking forward to building strong, engaging relationships with the driver community."

In response to Go-Jek's announcement, a Land Transport Authority (LTA) spokesman said that the government is in the midst of reviewing the regulatory framework for the point-to-point transportation sector to ensure that the ride-hailing market remains open and competitive. "The new regulatory framework will prohibit driver exclusivity arrangements for all parties in the market, to ensure that drivers are free to choose which operators to drive for, reduce entry barriers for new operators, and facilitate more options for commuters," added the LTA spokesman. The review is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.

Go-Jek's portal can be found at www.go-jek.com/sg/join.

The startup said that this is the "only official online channel" for GOJEK driver pre-registration.