Grab urges staff to take voluntary no-pay leave

The firm might not be able to provide financial support for drivers after 1 June.

Grab is encouraging its employees to take a voluntary no-pay leave, according to an announcement, as transport rides continue to plunge by double-digit percentages.

The ride-hailing firm also warns that it might no longer be able to provide further financial support for its drivers should the circuit breaker measures extend beyond 1 June.

GrabRentals will continue waiving the commission for existing drivers until 10 May, whilst new drivers signing from 4 May will get a 75% commission reduction. Grab has also halved its commission rate for all drivers until 1 June.

Meanwhile, the company's income support programme, which gives eligible drivers weekly payouts depending on the tier, will be extended until 31 May.

The fund for the additional round of financial help came from slashing other Grab benefit programmes, such as cancellation compensations and top driver and birthday rewards, as well as voluntary donations from Grab employees.

In the meantime, Grab is looking for opportunities for its drivers to supplement their income by allowing them to take delivery jobs.