6 Types of Uber and Grab Drivers You'll Find in Kuala Lumpur

When you're venturing out in KL, hopping into an Uber or Grab is a lot more stress-free than getting sardined in a crowded LRT or trying to find a metred cab that will take you where you want to go. What's more, opting for ride-hailing services is also an exciting lucky draw of sorts... because you don't know which weird or wonderful driver will be arriving at your doorstep. Here are a few characters that every Uber or Grab passenger has probably met during the course of their rides:

#1 The Chatter

This driver is weirdly interested in you and everything about you. They’ll want to know where you grew up, what you had for breakfast, and your extensive family history by the time you get from point A to point B. Some of the personal questions you can expect are: "How come your boyfriend never fetch you today?", "Wah, where you going on holiday?, and "You married ah?". It doesn’t matter if it’s a 5am run to the airport or a 7pm ride home after a tiring day of work. This driver JUST. WON'T. SHUT. UP.

#2 The Party Cab

You wouldn’t know whether you got into a car or if you’re roaming Changkat once you start your journey with this driver. You’ll be greeted with a blaring remix of One Dance and a questionable thought if your driver is high. The driver will yell over the music and ask about what clubs you’ve been too and then ask if you want to go to his favourite. The raving car with either leave you with a party vibe or a headache.

#3 The Purist

In the maze of KL’s roads, a GPS is your best bet for getting to your destination in the most efficient way possible. This logic gets thrown out of the window with this driver. They’ll believe that they're smarter than a GPS and that they know the best way. You’ll hop in at Bangsar and ask for KLCC and then end up with a very scenic route of PJ because every other road will be “very jammed lah” according to your driver.

#4 The Silent One

You would think you’ve entered a library once you get into this driver's car. You will be greeted by a subtle movement of his head, which could be read as a nod. The lack of eye contact and noise makes you question if there is even someone driving the car. This dull ride will definitely be the most relaxing and carefree, but then again, you know what they say about the quiet ones…

#5 The Five-Star Seeker

This driver is constantly searching for your approval. They'll fill their car with lollies and water bottles for refreshments. They'll make sure you're comfortable with the extra cushions provided. You’ll look around and think, "Hmmm, yeah, this is a decent five stars". When you reach your destination, they'll seek your approval one last time and casually throw in a, "Don’t forget my five stars ah". The overkill makes you question if the ride was really worth those five stars but then again, if he tries this hard to impress you… one cannot help but wonder how hard he’ll try to find you if you give him a lousy three stars.

#6 The High Achiever

This driver thinks he's here to slay. As soon as he pulls up in his Myvi, he’s onto you. You’ll think he’s just friendly at first, but then he’ll start pulling a "You’re a very pretty girl" and you’ll know what's up. You’ll let out a nervous giggle and calculate how old you think he is and how fast you can run once the car stops.

Meeting these quirky personalities can either brighten your day or make you feel a little uncomfortable. Remember that these drivers are there to provide a service so they are usually harmless but with that being said, if you do feel too uncomfortable, read our write-up on what to do if you're sexually harrased during these rides.