SIBU: The Sarawak Bus Transport Company Association, represented by advisor Lau Khing Seng, has recently applied for the implementation of the RM1 Flat Rate Bus Fare Programme for the Sibu-Kapit route.
Lau said the application was submitted several months ago and is currently pending approval.
“We are still waiting for the approval, and hope that the programme can be implemented soon as we have received requests from the public,” he disclosed on Friday (June 16).
At present, the RM1 flat rate is available for the Sibu-Belawai, Sibu-Tanjung Manis, and Sibu-Mukah routes.
Sarawak Dayak Iban Association permanent chairman Munan Laja had on June 11 urged the authorities to consider extending the RM1 flat rate to the Sibu-Song and Kapit sector.
Munan highlighted that the existing fares of RM16 (Sibu-Song) and RM22 (Sibu-Kapit) are burdensome, especially for the B40 group.
In addition to the fare request, Lau called for the construction of a bus terminal in Kapit. Currently, there is no bus terminal in Kapit, leading to complaints from bus commuters about being exposed to the elements.
Lau pointed out that the Sibu-Kapit-Sibu bus service has been operational since Jan 1, 2022, and has received positive feedback from the public.
“However, we are still utilising an open space in front of a shophouse about 3km from Kapit town centre as our operation centre.”
He highlighted that discussions on the need for a bus terminal began in 2016 but no progress has been made so far.
Lau expressed hope that the Sarawak Transport Ministry and Kapit MP Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who also serves as the federal Minister of Works, will address their requests.
