Kuala Lumpur: The government, through the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), will monitor any increase in express bus ticket prices ahead of this Aidilfitri festive season, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke. He emphasized that APAD will take action against any drastic or unreasonable price increases, despite express bus operators being permitted to impose a 10 percent surcharge during the festive season.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke noted that the 10 percent surcharge has been a standard practice for years and is considered normal. However, he assured that APAD will keep an eye on the situation to ensure there are no unreasonable or drastic increases. Any such cases will be addressed by the Ministry through APAD, as per his comments on allegations regarding rising express bus ticket prices ahead of Aidilfitri.

Loke mentioned last March that the surcharge is justified by factors such as additional bus service capacity and payments for bus hire. He clarified that this surcharge policy has been in place for the past 20 years, traditionally applied during a week before and after the festival day.