By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 28: The future plan for the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), which will deploy the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, includes an extension to the Red Line route to the 12th Mile of the Kuching–Serian Road, with further expansions to be considered in subsequent phases.
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said several traffic management and public transport initiatives are ongoing within Greater Kuching, including in Kota Sentosa.
“Among them is KUTS Phase 1, which covers key parts of Kuching and Kota Sentosa and will introduce the ART system supported by feeder bus services to improve last-mile connectivity,” he said in responding to Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap during the question-and-answer session at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Sitting today.
He added that the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme, known as BAS.MY, is now operational and provides affordable, reliable, and accessible stage bus services throughout Greater Kuching, including Kota Sentosa.
To further enhance traffic efficiency, he emphasised that the ministry is implementing smart traffic light systems at busy intersections, which will be equipped with Transit Signal Priority (TSP) features for ART vehicles and managed centrally through an operations control centre.
“These smart systems will regulate traffic flow and ensure smoother movement for ART and other vehicles across the network,” he explained.
Dr Jerip highlighted that the initiative forms part of a broader long-term strategy under the Sarawak Integrated Transport Master Plan (SITMP), designed to build an integrated, efficient and sustainable transport system across the State.
He said the SITMP lays out comprehensive plans to improve traffic management and strengthen public transport connectivity in Greater Kuching, including the Kota Sentosa area, in line with the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“The SITMP focuses on addressing traffic congestion, enhancing road safety, and strengthening public transport connectivity through integrated transport hubs, transport digitalisation, green and low-carbon mobility, regulatory and policy strengthening, and logistics infrastructure development,” he said.
Dr Jerip added that several major initiatives are already underway under this framework, including KUTS, the rollout of modern low-emission bus services, and the development of lorry terminals and multimodal hubs to support seamless mobility and economic competitiveness.
“All transport projects and programmes, from infrastructure upgrades to smart mobility initiatives, are planned in line with the SITMP and the ministry’s strategic plan, reflecting the state government’s commitment to a modern, sustainable transport system for the people of Sarawak,” he said. — DayakDaily
