PPBBM Urges Gov't For 6,000-Litre Monthly Subsidy For Tour Buses

GOMBAK, April 7 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Bumiputera Bus Operators Association (PPBBM) has proposed that the government provide 6,000 litres of subsidised diesel per month for each tour bus and 4,000 litres for each tour van to help stabilise their operating costs.

PPBBM chairman Mahazir Mat Din said the measure was necessary to support tour bus operators currently facing pressure from rising fuel costs to sustain their operations.

He said the continued increase in diesel prices was also affecting their profitability.

“We have only just recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic and are still bearing vehicle loan commitments. When diesel prices double, we incur losses every time a bus operates.

“Many customers have cancelled their bookings, which not only affects operators but also leads to job losses among drivers and company staff,” he said at a press conference here today.

The press conference was attended by more than 50 bus operators and drivers representing PPBBM, Pertubuhan Gemilang Agensi Pelancongan dan Pengusaha Bas Malaysia (GAPP) and the Malaysian Tour Van Association (PVPM).

Meanwhile, GAPP president Datuk Abdul Aziz Ismail Gani expressed hope that the government would give due attention to the appeals from tourism industry players.

“We appeal to the government to be mindful of our situation. At the very least, the provision of subsidised diesel would provide relief to operators facing high operating costs,” he said.

Meanwhile, PPBBM secretary Mahadi Izady Maharazi said the majority of tour bus customers comprised domestic tourists, such as school groups, government departments and associations.

“About 80 to 85 per cent of our customers are locals. Without diesel subsidies, operating costs have increased by between 25 and 40 per cent, resulting in many bookings being cancelled,” he said.

He added that such assistance would not only help save the tour bus industry but also boost the domestic tourism sector and local economies that depend on tourist movement.

-- BERNAMA