MIRI: School students had a first-hand experience of the Miri Smart Bus service through an awareness programme aimed at encouraging public transport use.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the programme, organised by the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MoTS), provides early exposure to a more modern and efficient urban transport system.
“Most of these students have never boarded the free smart bus before. This experience is meaningful and we hope it will open their minds to the importance of using public transport,” he said when attending the programme at SMK Lopeng here on Monday.
He said the public can now track the location of the free smart buses in real time through a mobile application, making it easier to plan daily travel.
The Senadin assemblyman added that the buses are equipped with modern features, including comfortable interiors and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance passenger safety.
During the programme, students were introduced to the operations of the Miri Smart Bus service, including how to plan journeys and access real-time updates through the Sarawak Smart Transport Application (SSTA).
The application allows users to check bus routes, schedules and service updates, helping to improve daily mobility in the city.
Lee said similar programmes would be extended to other schools in the Miri district to further increase awareness of public transport and help ease traffic congestion.
He also encouraged students to share information about the free bus service with their families.
“On weekends, parents can park near bus stops and take the bus with their children into the city for breakfast or leisure before returning on the same service.
“It can also help strengthen family bonds,” he said.
