By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 3: The Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) has clarified that the discontinuation of the RM1 subsidised fare on the Kuching-Serian route is due to the route’s integration into the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) Programme, operated by Biaramas Express Sdn Bhd under the BAS.MY’s pink bus fleet, effective April 2025.
According to a MOTS press release, this clarification follows a recent report by City Public Link Bus Service Sdn Bhd on March 28, 2025, regarding fare adjustments on the Kuching-Serian route.
“The Kuching-Serian route is one of 10 routes under the SBST Programme, which is funded by the federal government over a five-year period to improve stage bus services in Kuching.
“The remaining nine routes — including Taman Malihah, Bako, SMK Matang Jaya, SMK Agama Matang 2, Kampung Benuk Homestay, SJK Chung Hua Batu Kawa, King Centre, Muara Tebas, and Terminal Bas Bau — will transition to the SBST Programme in phases by May 2025.
“Similarly, the RM1 subsidised fare for these affected routes will be discontinued and replaced with the MyBas50 transit pass fare structure,” stated the release.
MOTS further stated that the recent launch of the SBST Programme aims to enhance public transportation in Kuching while also helping to ease traffic congestion.
“For a fixed rate of RM50 monthly for MyBas50 transit pass, passengers can enjoy unlimited rides on BAS.MY Kuching buses.
“Additionally, students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities can travel free of charge under the SBST Programme.”
While the SBST Programme progresses, the RM1 Flat Rate Bus Fare Subsidy Programme will continue to be implemented for areas not yet covered under SBST, ensuring continued support for eligible stage bus routes.
This ongoing initiative reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining affordable and accessible public transport, especially for the B40 group, while helping to reduce traffic congestion.
MOTS reaffirmed its dedication to improving public transportation services for the benefit of all Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
