Pulau tuba: The air-conditioned mini ferry service from Kuah Tourist Jetty to Pulau Tuba has successfully strengthened and boosted tourism activities, thus generating the economy of the local community on the island.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Marketing Manager of Koperasi Komuniti Kepulauan Tuba dan Selat Berhad (Bestuba), Siti Nurul Norzahera Che Mohd Zaher, stated that the service, first introduced in October last year, accommodates about 100 passengers per trip compared to previous smaller boats. She highlighted that tourists can find information on ticket prices and travel schedules on Bestuba's Facebook page, with the journey from the jetty in Kuah to Pulau Tuba taking only about 10 to 15 minutes.

Based on Bestuba's boat operation data, the island sees an influx of between 6,000 to 7,000 tourists per month, with numbers increasing during school holidays and weekends. Siti Nurul Norzahera emphasized that in addition to the mini ferry, smaller boats are still operational, enhancing the overall efficiency of their services.

She also noted that the organised ferry schedules and frequent trips provide convenience for tourists planning daily or overnight visits. Safety measures, including life jackets, are prioritized to ensure a secure and comfortable journey.

The influx of tourists has indirectly boosted local income through homestay services, seafood restaurants, motorcycle rentals, and tour packages. Siti Nurul Norzahera explained that improving sea transportation facilities aligns with initiatives to expand the tourism economy to rural areas, promoting balanced development within Langkawi's tourism ecosystem.

Pulau Tuba, renowned for its traditional fishing village atmosphere and natural beauty, is poised to become an alternative tourism destination in Langkawi.