Latest news with #SBST
Barnama
11 hours ago
- Business
- Barnama
13 BAS.MY Kota Setar Routes Launched Under SBST Initiative In Kedah
ALOR SETAR, June 5 (Bernama) -- Thirteen stage bus routes under the Kota Setar brand have begun phased operations from June 1, as part of the Stage Bus Services Transformation (SBST) programme in Kedah. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) said the programme is a federal government initiative under Budget 2024, with an allocation of RM80 million for a five-year service period, or RM16 million per year. 'This initiative is part of efforts to improve the quality of stage bus services in Alor Setar and other towns, including Sungai Petani, Jitra, Kuala Kedah, Kuala Nerang, and Pendang. ' Kota Setar services will operate at a frequency of every 30 minutes on urban routes and between 60 and 90 minutes on inter-district routes. The routes have been designed to connect major destinations around Alor Setar, such as Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, Pekan Rabu, Darul Aman Stadium, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, and the Kuala Kedah Jetty,' it said in a statement today. The routes are K10 Shahab Perdana-Kuala Kedah; K20 Shahab Perdana-Jitra; K30 Shahab Perdana-Kuala Nerang; K40 Shahab Perdana-Pendang via Simpang Empat; K41 Shahab Perdana-Pendang via Kota Sarang Semut; K50 Shahab Perdana-Sungai Petani; K51 Sungai Petani-Tanjung Dawai; K52 Sungai Petani-Pantai Merdeka; K60 Sungai Petani-Bandar Baharu; K61 Sungai Petani-Taman Kelisa; K62 Sungai Petani-Taman Ria Jaya / Taman Batik; K63 Sungai Petani-Bandar Perdana and K100 Alor Setar Feeder. The ministry added that the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), as the implementing agency of the SBST programme in Kedah, had appointed Gopi Travel Tours Sdn Bhd as the network operator for the bus services through an open tender process. 'Gopi Travel Tours Sdn Bhd has experience in operating stage bus services under the SBST programme in Seremban. The SBST programme aims to improve the quality of existing stage bus services to be more efficient, reliable, and sustainable, by balancing high-demand and social routes, optimising service frequencies and operational costs. 'A total of 48 new buses of 'midi' and low-floor mini types are being used. These new low-floor buses make boarding and alighting easier and are disabled-friendly. They are also equipped with modern technology such as cashless payment systems and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance passenger safety,' it said. The government has also introduced a free fare initiative for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), school students, and university, polytechnic, community college and matriculation students via the Concession Card.
The Sun
12 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
13 BAS.MY Kota Setar routes launched under SBST initiative in Kedah
ALOR SETAR: Thirteen stage bus routes under the Kota Setar brand have begun phased operations from June 1, as part of the Stage Bus Services Transformation (SBST) programme in Kedah. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) said the programme is a federal government initiative under Budget 2024, with an allocation of RM80 million for a five-year service period, or RM16 million per year. 'This initiative is part of efforts to improve the quality of stage bus services in Alor Setar and other towns, including Sungai Petani, Jitra, Kuala Kedah, Kuala Nerang, and Pendang. ' Kota Setar services will operate at a frequency of every 30 minutes on urban routes and between 60 and 90 minutes on inter-district routes. The routes have been designed to connect major destinations around Alor Setar, such as Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, Pekan Rabu, Darul Aman Stadium, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, and the Kuala Kedah Jetty,' it said in a statement today. The routes are K10 Shahab Perdana-Kuala Kedah; K20 Shahab Perdana-Jitra; K30 Shahab Perdana-Kuala Nerang; K40 Shahab Perdana-Pendang via Simpang Empat; K41 Shahab Perdana-Pendang via Kota Sarang Semut; K50 Shahab Perdana-Sungai Petani; K51 Sungai Petani-Tanjung Dawai; K52 Sungai Petani-Pantai Merdeka; K60 Sungai Petani-Bandar Baharu; K61 Sungai Petani-Taman Kelisa; K62 Sungai Petani-Taman Ria Jaya / Taman Batik; K63 Sungai Petani-Bandar Perdana and K100 Alor Setar Feeder. The ministry added that the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), as the implementing agency of the SBST programme in Kedah, had appointed Gopi Travel Tours Sdn Bhd as the network operator for the bus services through an open tender process. 'Gopi Travel Tours Sdn Bhd has experience in operating stage bus services under the SBST programme in Seremban. The SBST programme aims to improve the quality of existing stage bus services to be more efficient, reliable, and sustainable, by balancing high-demand and social routes, optimising service frequencies and operational costs. 'A total of 48 new buses of 'midi' and low-floor mini types are being used. These new low-floor buses make boarding and alighting easier and are disabled-friendly. They are also equipped with modern technology such as cashless payment systems and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance passenger safety,' it said. The government has also introduced a free fare initiative for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), school students, and university, polytechnic, community college and matriculation students via the Concession Card. 'In addition, the 30-Day Card has been introduced, allowing registered users to enjoy unlimited rides on Kota Setar services for 30 days at a cost of RM50. 'Through this programme, services are expected to ease mobility for approximately 28,000 users per month, encourage the use of public land transport among the local community, and help reduce daily travel costs,' it said.
Borneo Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
56 new stage buses introduced under SBST programme
File photo for illustration purposes KUCHING (May 27): A total of 56 new stage buses have been introduced across 10 key routes in Kuching under the State Bus Service Transformation (SBST) project, said Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. He was this was a major push to modernise Sarawak's public transport system, and that was currently servicing six routes, including the latest one to Kampung Benuk which began operations on May 22. 'Since the rollout on March 5 this year, the SBST project has recorded 34,860 passengers across five routes, namely Taman Malihah, King Centre, Bako, Bau and Serian. 'This initiative not only aims to improve accessibility to public transport in the city, but also reduce traffic congestion. Passengers can ride unlimited for just RM50 a month with the MyBas50 pass,' he said in his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday. He noted that students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities are eligible for free rides under the programme. As of May 13, a total of 2,175 applications for MyBas50 and concession cards were received since the initiative were introduced in March. Lee also announced that the 14 smart stage buses that were introduced in Miri in October 2024 saw ridership reaching 455,068 in just six months, which indicates growing public confidence in the bus system. 'These buses are equipped with electronic ticketing machines that accept debit and credit cards, e-wallets and cash, and registration and reload services for the passes are available at the Kuching Open Air Market bus station,' he said. On intercity travel, Lee said express buses remain an essential mode of transport, particularly for those commuting for work, studies or to visit family. Based on data from Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal, he said an average of 37 express bus trips depart daily. The most popular domestic routes are to Sibu, Bintulu, Sarikei, Miri, and Sri Aman, with Sibu topping the list at 3,669 passengers or 19.3 per cent of the total 19,023 passengers last year. Meanwhile, Pontianak remains the most popular international destination with 4,818 passengers recorded in 2024, or 25.3 per cent of outbound international travellers. 'To meet rising demand and ensure service reliability, my ministry will continue to collaborate with bus operators, relevant agencies and our counterparts in Indonesia,' he said. He also highlighted that plans are underway to develop an integrated Intelligent Transport System (ITS) to enhance coordination, efficiency and the passenger travel experience, although it remains in the early planning stages.
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
CVLB adds Saujana-Kampung Benuk bus route to enhance Kuching connectivity
Kong (second left) and others pose for the camera during a stop along the new route. KUCHING (May 22): The sixth Saujana-Kampung Benuk route under the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) Kuching initiative has been officially launched to provide better connectivity for the community. Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) Sarawak chairman Michael Kong said the new route is a significant addition to the city's growing public transport network. 'It is aimed at enhancing connectivity for residents from Kota Padawan, Bung Barau and Kampung Benuk to downtown Kuching. 'What is especially exciting about this new route is that it overlaps with the existing Saujana-Bau route at several key stops, including Timberland Medical Centre, Boulevard Shopping Mall, Farley Mile 6 Mile, and Mile 7 Bazaar. 'With this, commuters now have more flexibility and convenience in choosing between two service options for these destinations,' he said in a statement today following the launch. According to Kong, the first bus for the Saujana-Kampung Benuk route departs at 5.30am from Kampung Benuk and 6.30am from Saujana, with the last bus at 7.30pm on weekdays. He said the service operates from 6.30am to 8.30pm on weekends. 'Following our recent test run, we have identified 6.30 to 8.30am and 4.30 to 7.30pm on weekdays as peak hours. In response, we will increase the frequency of buses during these periods to every 30 minutes, ensuring that commuters have a timely and reliable alternative to private vehicles,' he explained. Kong said the launch is part of CVLB's broader mission to build a more accessible, sustainable and efficient public transport system for greater Kuching, while also helping to lower household transportation costs. He said public transport is not only a viable alternative, but also a smarter, more environmentally-friendly choice that helps reduce traffic congestion and lower household transportation costs. As such, he urged the public, particularly those living in areas served by the new route, to take advantage of the service. 'Your support and usage of the SBST Kuching services will ensure its long-term sustainability and growth, as we continue working towards an integrated, people-focused public transport ecosystem.' He also thanked the public for their continuous feedback and pledged CVLB's commitment to improving connectivity across Sarawak. bus route CVLB Kuching Michael Kong Saujana-Kampung Benuk
Borneo Post
08-05-2025
- Borneo Post
CVLB launches fifth Kuching SBST route connecting Saujana bus station to Bako terminal
Kong (second right) is joined by Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong and others in riding the bus following the launch of the Saujana-Bako terminal route. KUCHING (May 8): The fifth route under the Kuching Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) project, connecting Saujana bus station to the Bako terminal, was officially launched today. Sarawak Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) chairman Michael Kong said this reflected the board's continuous commitment towards improving public transportation services across the city. 'This newly introduced Saujana-Bako route will connect the Saujana Bus Station to Bako Terminal, passing through landmarks including the Kuching Waterfront, SJK Chung Hua No. 3, Chung Hua Middle School No. 1, Kolej Komuniti Santubong, Public Bank Padungan, Demak Laut Industrial Park and SMK Bako,' he said in a statement. The first bus will depart Bako Terminal at 5.30am, with departures from Saujana Bus Station beginning at 6.30am on weekdays. The last buses in both directions will leave at 7.30pm. To accommodate peak-hour demand, Kong said the frequency of services will increase to one bus every 30 minutes between 6.30am and 8.30am, as well as from 4.30pm to 7.30pm. On weekends, he said buses will run from 6.30am to 8.30pm in both directions. Sarawak CVLB has been launching the SBST Kuching routes in stages over the past couple of weeks, with many members of the public giving their input on where they would like the buses to operate. Kong said the board takes public feedback seriously and will closely monitor ridership trends and public responses for this route and other routes under the Kuching SBST. 'Through this data-driven approach, we will be able to identify areas with unmet demand and make the necessary adjustments and refinements to the existing routes in order to provide more comprehensive and efficient coverage for the people of Kuching. 'As we move toward a more sustainable and accessible public transport system, we remain committed to enhancing connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, and improving the quality of life for all,' he said. Bako CVLB Kuching Stage Bus Service Transformation Michael Kong Saujana
