In the modern world, money keeps the wheels turning and the lights on. In this world, we have found ways where technology is used to simplify life, though conveniences come with a cost – but does it mean we can forego a conscience?
QR code payments offer a quick and convenient alternative to cash. However, such technology is exploitable. One recent viral incident involving an elderly taxi driver has many Malaysians questioning the ethics of the digital generation.
Recently, a local taxi driver’s unfortunate experience made its way to TikTok through user @dila_dilala, who shared a heartfelt account after choosing to hail a cab from an LRT station rather than wait for a Grab. During the ride, the elderly driver opened up to her about a recurring problem: university students had repeatedly cheated him by falsely claiming they had paid their fare via QR code.
Dila’s video struck a chord with netizens online. Commenters expressed sympathy for the elderly driver, who is still working hard despite his age. Some were heartbroken by the thought of him being tricked repeatedly while simply trying to earn a living. The driver added that he wouldn’t have minded if the students had been honest about not having the money. What hurt more was the dishonesty, especially coming from university students, who one would expect to know better.
While these stories highlight an unfortunate trend, some netizens offered practical solutions. A few recommended that taxi drivers and stall vendors invest in eWallet Soundboxes—small devices that emit a voice confirmation whenever a QR payment is successfully received. “It’s not perfect, but at least it helps confirm that the money has gone through,” one user noted.
Beyond the incident itself, the viral story has sparked important conversations around digital ethics, the integrity of youth, and the vulnerability of the elderly workforce. As Malaysia pushes toward becoming a fully cashless society, stories like this are a stark reminder that technology is only as good as the people using it. Cashless doesn’t mean conscienceless. What would you do if we’re in the driver’s shoes?
Watch the viral clip below:
@dila_dilala Jadilah orang yang bertanggungjawab, tolonglah jangan menipu orang yang tengah mencari rezeki. Kesian, aku dengar pun 痛心！Lagikan uncle ni yang merasa 🥹
Source: TikTok
Gan contributed to the article.
