By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 17: The Ministry of Transport has proposed the introduction of dedicated lanes for public buses in future town planning in Sarawak.
Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin emphasised the need for these lanes, citing the remarkable 40.33 per cent increase in bus ridership between 2020 and August 2023 in Sarawak.
During this period, Sarawak registered a total of 9.96 million bus riders in the Kuching, Sibu, Miri, and Bintulu divisions. Specifically, 2021 saw 2.5 million riders, while 2022 had 3.5 million.
“The ridership for January to August in 2023 reached 2.67 million.
“As such dedicated lanes for buses are necessary so that there will not be any obstruction on the roads and ensure buses can be punctual. We need to change,” he said when launching Bus Asia’s double-decker buses and Prime Movers trucks at its terminal in Mile 4 today.
With Kuching Urban Transporation System (KUTS) coming up, which will see the deployment of hydrogen-powered autonomous rapid transit (ART) to elevate citywide public transportation, Lee is optimistic that more people will opt for public transportation.
“This transition will not only will alleviate traffic congestion but also reduce carbon footprint.
“With many benefits from providing an effective public transport network, the improvements must be driven by public expectation for more attractive and affordable services,” he said.
Lee added that both the public and private sectors within the transportation industry have the responsibility to play an active part in global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
“My ministry is dedicated to improving our public transportation system as a means to foster economic development and enhance our quality of life. Together, we can look forward to a future of improved transportation, reduced emissions, and more accessible cities for all,” he added.
Meanwhile, Biaramas Express Sdn Bhd, the operator of Bus Asia, manager Lai Sin Kiong pointed out that the company is in the process of transitioning from diesel usage to hydrogen in their bus fleet through collaboration with KIS Group.
“We hope this can materialise next year. This effort is also in line with Premier of Sarawak (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) vision to make Sarawak a sustainable region with a better and healthier environment,” he said.
Sarawak Business Federation president Datuk Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg, Biaramas Express directors Lai Chon Foo and Lai Sam Tee as well as representatives from the Road Transport Department Sarawak were among those present. — DayakDaily
