Kuantan: The new stop-and-go bus service, BAS.MY Kuantan, is poised to enhance the public transportation network in Kuantan as the city gears up for the operation of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) next year. Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted that this initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport, not only improves daily mobility for residents but also plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient connectivity between urban and rural areas, complementing the ECRL project.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the minister emphasized that the ECRL's completion next year will offer the public a faster and more efficient transportation alternative, which will enhance the current bus system. BAS.MY Kuantan, operational for nearly a month, has replaced the Rapid Kuantan buses and was officially launched during the Stage Bus Service Transformation 2.0 programme. Pahang Public Works, Transport, and Health Committee chairman Datuk Razali Kassim was also present at the event.
Loke reported that as of January, the bus service has catered to 129,000 passengers, averaging nearly 4,000 daily users, with expectations for growth in the upcoming months. The service employs 55 new buses, supported by an annual allocation of RM15.6 million for a five-year contract, after which it will be re-tendered.
According to Loke, the service, managed by Sanwa Tours Sdn. Bhd, currently covers areas under the Kuantan City Council and the Pekan Municipal Council. This implementation marks the first phase before potential expansion to secondary cities, contingent on the Ministry of Finance's approval.
The government has also introduced the Interim Stage Bus Support Fund (ISBSF) scheme to subsidize operators like MARA Liner in rural areas, ensuring continuity of services. Loke noted that all buses are newly equipped, air-conditioned, and adhere strictly to schedules to maintain service reliability. Additionally, the government offers a free fare initiative for senior citizens, people with disabilities (PWD), and school students who register for a concession card.