Go-Jek has launched a beta version of its app in Singapore, ahead of its entry into the republic in early 2019.
During this phase, access to the app will be granted in batches to balance ride demand and service capabilities. It’s President Andre Soelistyo said, "we are launching in beta version now, while we fine-tune to make sure it meets the high standards expected in Singapore."
Earlier in May this year, Go-Jek finally put an end to several months of speculation when it confirmed its expansion into four markets in the region - the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore, as part of a US$500 million (S$671 million) growth plan.
The company's expansion will pit it against Singapore-based Grab, the sole major ride-hailing operator in the region following Uber's exit from South-east Asia in March.
Grab currently operates in eight countries: Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and the Philippines.
In Indonesia, Go-Jek's services go beyond providing just private-hire vehicles. They include a variety of concierge services, such as food and grocery deliveries as well as cleaning and massage services.
Go-Jek has been looking at overseas expansion for some time, and its latest round of fund-raising has put it in a very strong position to achieve its ambition. Investors that have provided funds include American tech giant Google, Singapore's Temasek Holdings and China's Tencent.
Source/Photo: The Straits Times