By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 16: Sarawak’s Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project under the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) serves as an inspiration for Japan’s plans to introduce a hydrogen-powered “Fuji Tram” to serve Mount Fuji’s tourism industry.
According to a press release by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Metro chief executive officer Ts Mazli Mustaffa revealed that a team from Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture visited Kuching earlier this year to learn about the KUTS initiative.
“Our KUTS project team were able to provide valuable insights to the team from Yamanashi Prefecture and I believe that this has in one way or another inspired the decision by the prefecture to look into adopting the ART system,” said Mazli.
Mazli also shared that Sarawak Metro is ready to assist Yamanashi further in adapting the ART to suit its local requirements.
“The news has also definitely been a big morale booster for our KUTS project team, especially when we saw our prototype ART hydrogen vehicle being featured when the announcement was made in Japan,” Mazli added.
In late November, Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki announced plans to implement a hydrogen-powered ‘trackless tram’ to shuttle tourists at the foot of Mount Fuji, citing its lower construction cost and environmental benefits compared to traditional rail systems.
The trams are expected to accommodate up to 120 passengers and will address overcrowding issues during Japan’s summer peak season. While Yamanashi is considering the ART system by the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), priority will be given to Japanese companies offering similar hydrogen-powered technologies.
Mazli described the development as a validation of Sarawak Metro’s commitment to revolutionising Kuching’s public transport while inspiring sustainable transport solutions globally. –DayakDaily
