KUCHING, April 8: The newly upgraded Bako Passenger Terminal will be a convenient, efficient and safe landing point for passengers travelling from Kampung Bako to Bako National Park at any tidal level, rain or shine.
The soft launch of the newly upgraded terminal was officiated by Minister of Transport Datuk Lee Kim Shin today.
He revealed that this state funded project with a cost of RM2.68 million was completed in 15 months with scope of works including an expansion of the existing terminal building, upgrading of existing pontoons and ramps, parameter fencing with a proper guard house and ample carpark spaces as well as space for stage buses that service the area.
“This terminal will be gazetted under the Sarawak Rivers Traffic Regulation 1993 and Sarawak Rivers Ordinance 1993 and subsequently will be managed by the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB).
“SRB will station its enforcement officers at the terminal to oversee 74 existing licensed boats servicing this route to ensure passengers’ safe journey as well as to prevent overloading and unregulated fare,” he said in a press release.
Lee emphasised that this upgraded terminal is necessary to further support and promote tourism and other related activities in this area.
“The Bako Passenger Terminal is a riverine facility for the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers from Kampung Bako to Bako National Park.
“The boat ride from Bako Terminal to the Bako National Park will take about 20 minutes.
“Based on records, the total number of visitors recorded for the past three years from 2018 until 2020 was 137,886,” he disclosed.
Moreover, now there is ample carpark spaces and also a waiting area for public buses that ply the route from Kuching to the terminal, Lee believed visitors and locals residing along the route will be able to travel conveniently and comfortably.
Lee also sought the cooperation of all stakeholders especially the local population to help take care of the newly upgraded terminal and surrounding area.
“With a safe and clean environment as well as better facilities and services available including regular bus service, it will attract more visitors to the area. This certainly augurs well for the people living in the area,” he added.
Assistant Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Demak Laut assemblyman Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, the ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Buckland Bangik and SRB chairman Dr Murni Suhaili were present. — DayakDaily
