KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is standing by its investment in the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system despite early criticism over its cost and long term viability.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the decision to implement the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) was driven by the state’s ambition to transform Greater Kuching into a modern, efficient and environmentally friendly city.
“When I started this public transportation system, of course there was a lot of criticism on why we launched this. It is very expensive, number one. Number two, whether we are able to support this system.
“I must say here I have to take the risk, because we want to develop our city as a friendly and modern city, Kuching,” he said at the Station Naming Rights Signing Ceremony between Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd and IBRACO Berhad today (Aug 1).
Abang Johari reaffirmed the government’s vision for KUTS extends beyond constructing a modern public transport network, with the aim of fundamentally transforming the way people travel within Greater Kuching.
“Our aspiration has always been to fundamentally transform the way people travel within Greater Kuching by providing a safe, efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly transportation system,” he said.
He asserted that the system is designed to enhance the quality of life by reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, improving urban connectivity and supporting more balanced and sustainable urban growth.
Abang Johari said the investment in modern public transport would also strengthen Kuching’s appeal as a tourism destination by making it easier for visitors to travel around the city.
“We will get tourists to come over to Kuching and they will spend money. They will spend money, particularly when a city is a clean city,” he said.
He noted that Kuching is recognised as one of the cleanest cities in the world and stressed the importance of preserving that reputation by maintaining a clean environment and good air quality.
Abang Johari said this commitment to sustainability was one of the reasons Sarawak invested in hydrogen technology to power the ART system, despite scepticism when the initiative was first introduced.
“People criticise me, they say, ‘Oh, belum mature lagi’. But then today everybody is now talking about alternative carbon, hydrocarbon, that is hydrogen.
“So much so, they invited me to give a talk on hydrogen throughout the world. I went to Poland, I went to Paris, I was invited to Indonesia and Bangkok, all over the world, asking me to share our alternative energy to green energy that is hydrogen. Meaning we are on the right track,” he said.
He added that hydrogen production costs have improved with the introduction of new technology and that the hydrogen production facility in Rembus is progressing according to schedule to supply fuel for the ART system.
Abang Johari said the government’s long term vision is to develop a cleaner, smarter and better connected Kuching, creating a city that benefits residents while attracting more visitors through a modern and sustainable public transport network.
