Kuching: The free school bus initiative, initially implemented as a pilot project at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (SJK) Chung Hua No. 6, is set to expand to more schools following its success in reducing the number of private vehicles around the school and enhancing student safety. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed that data from statistics and the tracking system used indicated a significant reduction in traffic volume around the school, easing congestion and improving road safety.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the school bus is equipped with real-time tracking technology and a two-way communication system, which has increased parents' confidence in the safety of their children. Through this digital system, parents can monitor the movement of the bus and communicate directly with their children throughout the journey. Abang Johari made these remarks while speaking to reporters after launching the Free School Bus and Smart Classroom.

Abang Johari emphasized that the initiative provides direct benefits to parents by reducing the need for them to send and pick up their children from school, thereby helping to ease the burden of rising living costs. He stated that the state government fully funds the programme, covering the cost of buses and related operational expenses to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.

This initiative is also part of broader efforts to promote the use of safe and efficient public transport, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and support more sustainable urban development. Abang Johari added that the programme would be expanded in stages to other schools, including those in both urban and rural areas, with implementation tailored to local needs.