09-08-2025
UTS enhances student safety with two new shuttle mini buses
(From fourth left) Dr Annuar, Khairuddin, Goh, Jimmy and others pose with the new mini bus. – Photo by Peter Boon
SIBU (Aug 9): University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) remains committed to ensuring students' safety, as demonstrated by the introduction of two Co-star mini buses, each with 28 seats, for shuttle services.
State Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said the vehicles were acquired by the state government to accommodate the university's growing student population of about 4,000.
'As you are all well aware, safety issues affecting students have been widely reported. Relying on Grab daily can also place financial strain on them.
'Many of our students live in residential areas near the campus. While we already have a large bus for student transportation, some roads in these neighbourhoods are too narrow for it to navigate.
'Therefore, the delivery of the two 28-seater Co-star mini buses is timely in ensuring students arrive at UTS promptly and safely for their lectures,' said Dr Annuar, who is also UTS chairman.
He expressed hope that the university would arrange frequent shuttle services at scheduled times, allowing students to plan their travel conveniently.
He was speaking after witnessing the symbolic handover of the two mini buses to UTS from Huong Seng Motor Trading Sdn Bhd at Jalan Ding Lik Kong here yesterday.
He reiterated the state's assurance of providing a safe and conducive study environment for UTS students.
'We want to highlight that UTS is not only offering quality education but also prioritising student safety,' stressed the Nangka assemblyman.
He also assured parents that UTS offers adequate facilities and strong academic support, noting that this initiative is part of the university's strategy to enhance its range of facilities and attract more students.
Over the next few years, he said he would work closely with the university's management to prioritise infrastructure improvements, particularly the construction of a new hostel and the upgrading of food services through a better cafeteria.
'These aspects are crucial as we aim to prevent students from being burdened by accommodation or meals issues, which could hinder their studies,' he added.
Meanwhile, Huong Seng Motor Trading Sdn Bhd managing director Kapitan Goh Kee Seng thanked UTS for its support and trust, adding that the delivery of the Co-star mini buses was the company's way of contributing to education.'
Also present were UTS vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abd Hamid and registrar Jimmy De Rozario. Dr Annuar Rapaee lead mini buses UTS
