By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, April 10: For Lee, 29, driving for Grab is more than just a job; it’s a way to embrace flexibility while navigating the challenges of life.
After leaving his previous job, where he had spent many years, Lee found himself facing the harsh reality of rising living costs. His salary seemed to remain stagnant, with no substantial increments in sight.
Despite the love he had for his old profession, it became clear that it was time for a change.
“I left my previous job after many years because my salary couldn’t keep up with the rising costs of living. There didn’t seem to be any substantial increments coming in the future.
“I loved the job, no doubt, but there comes a time when you need to make changes. Driving for Grab gives me more flexibility and allows me to earn more, all while I actively seek a better job,” he told DayakDaily in an exclusive interview today.
For Lee, the freedom of setting his own hours has been one of the biggest perks.
“Being a Grab driver is stress-free in the sense that I can start whenever I feel like it,” he said.
“Sometimes I start work in the morning, sometimes in the afternoon. As long as I drive enough hours to earn a decent income, I’m happy. I even drive at night until past midnight, and I love it because I enjoy driving!”
But it’s not just the flexibility that keeps Lee behind the wheel; it’s also the small, heartwarming moments that make the job fulfilling.
“There have been many heartwarming moments when passengers, knowing there’s bad traffic, would give me tips—sometimes as much as half of the ride fare,” Lee recalled with a smile.
“Some even offer encouragement, saying that we all work hard to earn money because the economy isn’t great right now. Those little acts of kindness really make a difference.”
However, driving for a living isn’t without its challenges. For Lee, one of the biggest struggles he faces daily is road rage from other drivers.
“Road rage incidents are definitely the hardest part of the job. I drive at least eight hours a day, so I encounter these situations more frequently than others. But you get used to it over time.
“What’s most important to me is making sure my passengers get to their destination safely and that they pay me for my service. That’s what matters most,” Lee explained.
Despite the occasional stress of navigating through traffic or dealing with irritable drivers, Lee remains positive.
“After driving for months, you get used to the long hours and traffic jams. As long as I can bring home a good salary, that’s all that matters. I’m really grateful for this gig-economy job.”
Lee’s experiences also give him a unique perspective on the differences between local and foreign passengers.
“Believe it or not, foreigners, especially Indonesians, are often nicer than the locals. They’re also the ones who give the most tips,” Lee laughed.
“They always greet me when they get in and thank me when they reach their destination. Small gestures like that really make your day better. It’s a nice feeling to be appreciated.”
Through it all, Lee remains grounded in the knowledge that his job provides him the flexibility he needs while he pursues bigger dreams.
For now, though, he’s content driving and taking each day as it comes, one ride at a time. — DayakDaily
