If there are heroes who’ve revolutionized the best way people live and work in Southeast Asia, Gojek and Grab come to mind. These two tech startups launched in 2015 as motorcycle and automotive transportation services. Currently, these are super-app models that supply a big selection of services beyond automotive transport.
Gojek was founded by Nadiem Makarim in 2009, inspired by on a regular basis cycling taxi or bicycle transport to work in Indonesia. Nadiem has proposed an internet ride service that is on the market at any time when customers and drivers need it.
The application was created in 2015 in reference to a big investment by the corporate. Today, Gojek is on the market in over 207 cities in 4 Southeast Asian countries.
At the same time, Grab was first launched in 2012 in Malaysia by Anthony Tan as a mobile application for booking taxis. The app, originally called “MyTeksi”, has expanded its services to Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. In early 2016, the corporate modified its name to “Grab” with a redesigned logo.
When did they begin?
When each corporations were introduced to the general public, traditional taxis and public transportation were still very conventional and unavailable. The launch and implementation of the service led to the creation of a more convenient and cheaper alternative, covering each drivers and passengers.
Additionally, each platforms have created more job opportunities for drivers, delivery drivers and sellers. In 2018, GOJEK contributed Rp 44.2 trillion to the Indonesian economy. Meanwhile, Grab Partners’ contribution reached 48.9 trillion rupiah.
They have since diversified their offerings to incorporate food delivery, logistics and digital payments. Their ride-sharing and ride-sharing services also helped improve urban mobility by reducing traffic congestion.
Read also: Watch out, Gojek and Grab, AirAsia may also launch passenger transport services
More than simply a people transport app
As they suggest, Gojek and Grab, based on super applications, have offered more solutions enabling the transport of not only people, but in addition food, things and other comprehensive services.
They have also provided their very own digital payment platforms to facilitate cashless transactions, while promoting the event of the digital economy and the cashless era. Access to financial services has turn into available to people, especially in underserved areas.
Security features and background checks have also been introduced to make sure the security of each passengers and drivers. They used artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize operations and improve user experience.
Both Grab and Gojek have campaigned and invested in electric vehicle initiatives that aim to scale back greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable transport. They also campaigned to support local businesses by constructing partnerships with other emerging start-ups and technology corporations. This implies that hyperlocal services akin to grocery delivery, pharmacy delivery and cleansing services have also been developed and introduced into the appliance.
The future technology giants
10 years after their first official founding, Grab and Gojek proceed to innovate with advanced technologies and sustainable initiatives.
It is feasible that autonomous vehicles will debut of their services, revolutionizing transport and logistics. Both corporations will likely prioritize environmental initiatives akin to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
Even though they could be perceived as competitors, Grab and Gojek proceed to innovate and invest for a greater life for people in Southeast Asia. Their ten-year commitment inspires other startups that also focus their services on the general public good.
