Kuching: The Sarawak Transport Ministry today clarified that the discontinuation of the RM1 subsidised fare on the Kuching-Serian route is due to its integration into the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) Programme effective April 2025.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the route is one of the 10 routes under the SBST programme, operated by Biaramas Express Sdn Bhd under the BAS.MY’s pink buses, which is funded by the federal government over a five-year period to improve stage bus services in Kuching.

The remaining nine routes, including Taman Malihah, Bako, SMK Matang Jaya, SMK Agama Matang 2, Kampung Benuk Homestay, SJK Chung Hua Batu Kawa, King Centre, Muara Tebas, and Terminal Bas Bau, will transition to the SBST Programme in phases by May 2025. Similarly, the RM1 subsidised fare on these affected routes will cease and be replaced with the MyBas50 transit pass fare structure.

The statement came in response to the recent news report published on March 28 regarding bus fare adjustments for the Kuching-Serian route by local bus company City Public Link Bus Service Sdn Bhd.

The ministry said the recent launch of the SBST Programme aims to enhance public transportation in Kuching while also helping to reduce traffic congestion.

For a fixed rate of RM50 monthly for a MyBas50 transit pass, passengers can enjoy unlimited rides on BAS.MY Kuching buses. Additionally, students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities can travel free of charge under the SBST Programme.

Meanwhile, the RM1 Flat Rate Bus Fare Subsidy Programme remains in effect for areas not covered by the SBST programme and will continue to support eligible stage bus routes, ensuring ongoing assistance for public transportation across Sarawak.

‘This initiative reaffirms the government’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible public transport, particularly benefiting the B40 group while also helping to ease traffic congestion,’ the ministry added.