56 new stage buses introduced under SBST programme
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) BAS.MY 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 BAS.MY 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.
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