KUCHING, March 5 (Bernama) -- The public is encouraged to experience the new Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) buses, which have recently begun operation from the Open Air station here.
Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the project will introduce 56 stage buses operating across 10 routes in phases to further improve public transport services in the city.
“Today, the bus company is starting with six buses. Actually, it’s 10, but four are not operating yet. Another batch of 26 buses will arrive by the end of March, and another 20 buses by the end of April.
“These modern buses are equipped with CCTV, low-deck accessibility for OKU (persons with disabilities), and GPS tracking. We hope more people will use the bus to help reduce traffic congestion in the city,” he told reporters before trying out the service at the bus station here today.
Lee said that the bus service, an initiative by the federal government, also features the BAS.MY concession card system for free rides on SBST buses for senior citizens, OKU card holders and students.
“SBST also introduces a prepaid card system valued at RM50, valid for 30 days with unlimited rides for all SBST buses.
“The Sarawak Ministry of Transport is working closely with the federal Ministry of Transport to ensure the smooth implementation of the modernisation and transformation of public transport in Sarawak, and hope it will be extended to other parts of the state,” Lee said, adding that his ministry will also discuss with the local authorities to increase the number of bus terminals and identify suitable areas for their establishment.
Yesterday, the state’s Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board (LPKP) in a statement said that the first route, Q10, will run from the Open Air Market to Serian.
The buses operate on an open payment system, which allows passengers to pay using debit cards, credit cards, e-wallets or cash.
-- BERNAMA
