KUCHING: The Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system should offer fares between 10 sen and 15 sen per kilometre to ensure affordability for the public, as suggested by Professor Geoffrey Williams.
The economist at the Malaysia University of Science and Technology said this rate is based on rail fares in Peninsular Malaysia.
“So, the new Blue Line, running from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in the Kuching city centre, would cost around RM1.30 to RM1.50.
“There could also be single fee rates for everyone to help low-income groups and encourage high-income individuals to utilise the ART.”
He told New Sarawak Tribune that affordable fares, combined with strategically located stations, including tourist destinations, would attract more people to use public transport.
Moreover, the hydrogen-powered ART vehicles are seen as a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel buses.
Prof Williams noted that the primary beneficiaries of such a project would be low-income groups, youth, and retirees with limited private vehicle options.
Beyond providing affordable transportation options, the ART system is expected to contribute positively to Sarawak’s economy, particularly in Kuching, by improving local transport, reducing congestion, and making public transport more cost-effective.
The presence of ART stations is likely to boost property values, benefitting local communities.
He also highlighted the potential for increased economic activity around ART stations, as people leaving public transport would be more likely to explore nearby shops and businesses during their last-mile journeys.
“For now, when travelling in private vehicles, people usually go straight to the parking areas and so do not pass shops on the way,” he explained. “Thus, we can expect more jobs, businesses and other developments to follow suit soon.”
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has assured that the fare or ticket prices for ART will be affordable to avoid burdening the public.
Passenger services are set to commence in stages from the fourth quarter of 2025, starting with the Blue Line, and two additional lines, Red (from Kuching Sentral to Pending) and Green (from Pending to Damai Central), are planned under Phase 1 of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project.
The ART vehicles will operate on dedicated, trackless lanes and use hydrogen as part of Sarawak’s commitment to advancing the hydrogen economy and decarbonising public transport.
