MIRI: Since the implementation of the RM1 flat rate bus fare this year in three major places in the state, namely Miri (May 12) followed by Sibu, and May 21 in Kuching, response has been encouraging.
According to Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin on Thursday (Aug 27) after chairing a meeting in Kuching with officers from Ministry of Transport Sarawak and representatives from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Sarawak Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB), data collected showed a significant increase in the number of people using public transportation despite restricted movement due to the movement control order to contain the spread of Covid-19.
“In this regard, we would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to all parties involved, especially to the bus operators who had put in a lot of effort to ensure the success of this programme.”
The overwhelming response was reflected in the significant increase in stage bus ridership from 12,657 in May 2020 to 247,772 in July 2020, Lee added.
The table (see chart below) showed the increase in total ridership for the months of June 2020 to July 2020 for the Kuching, Sibu and Miri.
“Undoubtedly, the figures in the table show that people are responsive to this programme initiated by the state government to help the rakyat. In fact, people are using buses as their primary mode of transport for daily commuting, either for shopping, leisure or work.”
The CVLB issues permits for bus operation along the approved routes while JPJ ensures compliance by bus companies to the terms and conditions of the permits.
The RM1 flat rate bus fare programme was approved by the Sarawak government on May 4, 2020.
