By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 26: The first two units of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles for Sarawak are scheduled to arrive in Kuching early next year, revealed Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
He said the ART units, which are being manufactured in China, will be delivered in stages, with the initial two units expected by early 2026.
“The final version of the ART will be delivered here (Kuching) in phases, starting with the first two units in early 2026,” he said during a press conference after delivering his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting here today.
Lee, who is also Senadin assemblyman, added that the following shipments would consist of two to three ART units per batch.
He also confirmed that the Sarawak government had previously agreed to procure 38 ART units from the supplier.
The minister went on to address concerns over delays in the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) Phase 1 construction, stating that although there has been a setback, mechanisms are in place to monitor progress and enforce accountability.
“In the event of delays, the contractor is required to submit a catch-up plan. If they fail to meet the timeline, they are subject to liquidated damages under the contract terms,” he said.
KUTS Phase 1 will also be supported by a fleet of 55 hydrogen-powered buses aimed at enhancing public transport sustainability in line with Sarawak’s green energy agenda.
Lee assured that the State government is taking a professional and structured approach in implementing the ART project, guided by technical experts and international best practices. — DayakDaily
