Labuan Ferry Terminals Abuzz With Travellers Ahead Of Festive Season

LABUAN, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- Labuan's ferry terminals are experiencing a surge in activity, as locals and travellers from Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia flock to the Labuan Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal and Labuan International Ferry Terminal. 

The upcoming festive season, coupled with the year-end school holiday, has brought an influx of passengers heading to mainland Sabah and Sarawak for Christmas celebrations and holiday getaways.

Hundreds of vehicles of various types, formed queues stretching over 300 metres towards the ferry terminals, as early as 7 pm. Meanwhile, passengers with luggage, accompanied by children and family members, created a bustling scene of movement and excitement.

Labuan Point Enterprise, the ticketing management company overseeing the ferry services for MV Joy Star, MV Kimanis 1, MV Putrajaya 1, and MV Goodwill Star, has reported a robust response to ticket sales, which opened a month ago in anticipation of the seasonal demand. 

Its manager, Robert Ling, said that ferry operations have been increased, from the usual four trips per day to nine daily trips, to accommodate the surge in travellers.

He said the expanded schedule, effective today, ensures uninterrupted service from morning until 8 pm. This measure is set to remain in effect until next week.

“The extended schedule aims to provide convenience to passengers and alleviate congestion at the terminals, which have experienced a significant increase in activity,” he told Bernama, today.

Ling noted that families, holidaymakers, and those reuniting with loved ones for the holidays have contributed to the bustling atmosphere, with queues forming early as eager travellers await their journeys.

Passengers are advised to plan their journeys in advance and arrive early at the terminals to ensure smooth boarding amidst the high volume of travellers.

To manage the crowds efficiently, the ferry terminals have implemented additional measures, including deploying extra staff and streamlining ticketing processes.

As Christmas and New Year festivities approach, the lively scenes at Labuan's ferry terminals reflect the spirit of togetherness and celebration, with the community coming together to mark the joyous time of year.

--BERNAMA