Bolt Records 40% Quarter-on-Quarter Growth in First Year of Operations in Malaysia

The milestone marks Bolt’s rapid rise as a key challenger in Malaysia’s ride-hailing market, as it prepares for expansion into new Malaysian cities in 2026

by Kenny Yeoh

Kuala Lumpur, 8 December 2025 – One year since its launch in Malaysia, Bolt has reported strong and consistent 40% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) growth, highlighting its rapid emergence as one of the most promising new entrants in the country’s ride-hailing industry.

Since debuting in the Klang Valley in late 2024, Bolt has quickly built a reputation for fairer earnings for driver, affordable fares for passengers, and a transparent, tech-driven service. The company’s expansion in Malaysia reflects growing consumer demand for mobility options that balance affordability, quality, and fairness.

When we launched Bolt in Malaysia, our goal wasn’t to be another ride-hailing app; it was to create a fairer, more people-focused alternative,” said Afzan Lutfi, General Manager, Bolt Malaysia. “A year later, the response from both driver and passengers confirms that Malaysians are ready for better, more equitable choices in urban transport.”

Bolt’s growth has been driven by its driver-first model, which offers competitive commissions and flexible earning opportunities. Since launch, the platform has recorded an average of 40% QoQ growth in finished orders and an average of 25% QoQ growth in active driver partners, demonstrating the strong traction Bolt is gaining across both riders and drivers.

In 2025, Bolt became the first ride-hailing platform in Malaysia to fully integrate toll charges into its in-app fare system, ensuring complete clarity for both passengers and drivers. The company also introduced Bolt Executive, a premium ride option catering to business travellers and customers seeking elevated comfort and Bolt Business, a corporate travel solution. For airport travellers, Bolt introduced Flight Tracking, which automatically adjusts pick-up times for delayed or cancelled flights. To support household users, Bolt added Family Profile, making it easier to manage multiple riders under one account.

Bolt’s emphasis on reliable, affordable rides has attracted a growing base of daily commuters across the Klang Valley. Transparent pricing, consistent service quality, and frequent promotions have made Bolt a compelling alternative for riders seeking value without compromising comfort.

Safety has remained a core priority throughout 2025. Bolt introduced PIN Matching, a pick-up code feature designed to ensure passengers enter the correct vehicle, strengthening rider–driver verification alongside Bolt’s existing global safety suite in Malaysia, which includes SOS, Trip Anomaly Detection, Audio Recording, and Share Trip features.

Bolt’s entry has invigorated Malaysia’s e-hailing market by expanding income opportunities for drivers and offering consumers more choice. Bolt’s Instant Early Cash Out enables eligible partner drivers to withdraw their earnings on demand, any day of the week, improving cashflow predictability. Bolt also continued offering Car Branding, which enables drivers to earn supplementary income through vehicle wraps.

Throughout its first year, Bolt has worked closely with the regulatory authorities to ensure full regulatory compliance and responsible operations, reinforcing its commitment to Malaysia’s long-term mobility ecosystem.

Following a strong first year in the Klang Valley, Bolt is preparing to expand into new Malaysian cities in 2026. “This first year has proven that Bolt’s model works, for drivers, for passengers and for the market,” added Afzan. “Our focus now is on scaling that success responsibly, while continuing to deliver value and innovation for Malaysian commuters.”

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