by Amanda L
KUCHING, Jan 25: The schedule for the Kuching Metro Electric Bus Service Route 103 serving the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre has been adjusted to better align with orangutan feeding times.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the adjustment was made after it was found that some earlier bus schedules resulted in visitors arriving after feeding sessions had ended.
“Previously, the route was already there and we are still using it, but the timing has been adjusted to better suit tourists.
“Some of the earlier schedules were not fully utilised because by the time passengers arrived at Semenggok, the feeding session was already over,” he said.
He said this to reporters ahead of the trial run of the new Kuching Metro electric bus routes from Electra House here today.
Abdul Karim explained that the wildlife centre has two daily feeding sessions, in the morning and late afternoon, and the revised bus schedule is designed to ensure visitors arrive on time for these key attractions.
“That is why we adjusted the departure times so more buses are available earlier, to match the feeding schedule.
“We want the service to better meet the expectations of tourists,” he said.
He added that the ministry joined the trial run to experience the journey first hand and to assess whether the changes made to the route and schedule were practical and effective.
On updates to Bus 103 routes, Abdul Karim said the service, provided by the Sarawak government through the ministry, remains a free public transport option for both locals and tourists travelling to Semenggok.
“Before heading to the wildlife centre, the bus will pass several hotels in Kuching to pick up tourists, while the afternoon route also serves destinations such as Damai and Sarawak Cultural Village,” he explained.
He said the free service has been in operation for about five years and continues to focus on supporting tourism, while remaining accessible to the general public.
“At the moment, four buses are operating, and we are satisfied with the facilities and services provided.
“These are fully electric buses, in line with our efforts to be more environmentally friendly,” he noted.
He added that locals and visitors from other parts of Sarawak, including those travelling from Kuching, Sibu or Miri, can also make use of the service.
Members of the public are encouraged to refer to the official website for the latest schedules and route details, as operating times vary depending on the destination. — DayakDaily
