“This is not a PR stunt”: foodpanda S’pore joins forces with Traffic Police to protect riders

foodpanda Singapore launched its inaugural Rider Safety Month yesterday (October 7), which aims to enhance the safety of its delivery partners.

The initiative is launched in partnership with the Singapore Traffic Police (TP), with Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Minister of Home Affairs, and Ministry of National Development, attending as the guest of honour.

45 delivery partners participated in the launch event and demonstration, which was held and led by ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC), and where some instructors gave tips on what riders could look out for their safety whilst on the road.

Providing care for their riders

According to a 2022 report by CNA, the safety of food delivery riders was placed under the spotlight after it was revealed in parliament that five drivers had passed within 18 months.

Since then, foodpanda Singapore has joined hands with Grab and Deliveroo to form the Digital Platforms Industry Association (DPIA)—an association that aims to strengthen frameworks to better support riders and merchants.

foodpanda has also continued to invest in rider’s safety, with the Rider Safety Month being their newest initiative launched in line with the cause.

Jamie O’Mahony, Chief Financial Officer of foodpanda, expressed his commitment to the cause. In his opening address, he shared that he lost family members to road traffic accidents and that this has made him passionate about advocating for the safety of drivers.

“This is not a PR stunt for us. I really want us to be driving positive change moving forward, and for that reason, this should hopefully work as more of a catalyst on how we can start working and be in partnership with all of the stakeholders that are here today, to drive forward the agenda for riders and other road users,” he stated.

In October, foodpanda delivery riders can sign up for hands-on safety training courses, which will be tailored according to the vehicle type and conducted by the CDC and the Singapore Cycling Federation.

Riders who participate in the course will receive a complimentary safety and essentials kit, which includes an emergency toolkit, rain gear, reflective shirts, first-aid kit and more. Those who demonstrated their commitment to road safety will also be eligible for rewards of up to S$300.

This collaboration is part of the lead up to the Traffic Police’s Singapore Ride Safe campaign, which strives to promote safe riding behaviours among motorcyclists, including delivery riders. I think it is important that such efforts not only help to reduce accidents, but also contribute to creating safer roads and paths for all. So, I would like to encourage more industry stakeholders and businesses to promote a strong road safety culture so that it is safe for the delivery riders.

Also Read: After Yew Tee, foodpanda is giving free one-month pandapro subscriptions to Simei residents.

Featured Image Credit: foodpanda Singapore