Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Transport is urging the public to actively utilize the Bas.My stage bus service launched under the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme, which is being implemented in phases throughout this year. Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the necessity of public participation to secure continued funding for this initiative, particularly in urban regions where the service is operational.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Loke highlighted the significant government investment in the program, noting that substantial funds have been allocated to support the Bas.My service. The initiative aims to demonstrate its value by gathering data on usage and performance to convince the Finance Ministry of its benefits to the public. The minister expressed concerns that without adequate public use, further funding for expansion could be difficult to justify.
At the launch of the Kota Setar Bas.My service, Minister Loke was joined by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, co-chairman of the Kedah State Development Action Council, and Kedah State Agriculture, Plantation and Transport Committee chairman Dzowahir Ab Ghani. The federal government has committed RM78.5 million over five years, equating to RM15.7 million annually, to sustain 13 SBST routes in Kedah.
Since its phased inception on June 1, the Kota Setar Bas.My service has recorded approximately 30,000 monthly users, with expectations to reach 40,000 by month’s end. Minister Loke encouraged increased usage, explaining that a higher passenger count would lower the average cost per passenger and enhance the value of the government’s investment.
Separately, Minister Loke addressed a recent fatal accident involving a Bas.My bus in Kota Sarang Semut, stating that the incident is under police investigation. The Ministry of Transport will assist with technical evaluations, but decisions regarding potential negligence or charges against the driver will be determined by the police. Minister Loke reaffirmed that all bus operators are obligated to comply with stringent safety regulations, including speed restrictions and mandatory driver training programs.