KUCHING: Bus fares under the BAS.MY Kuching initiative have been reduced, with the new rates taking effect immediately on March 11.
Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP) Sarawak chairman Michael Kong Feng Nian said that under the revised fare structure, passengers will now pay RM0.94 for the first 2km and RM0.094 for each subsequent km.
This brings down fares on the Q10 route, which runs from the Open Air Market to the Serian Bus Terminal, to between RM0.90 and RM7.10, compared to the initial range of RM1 to RM12.60.
The decision, he said, follows public feedback received after the launch of the Q10 route last week.
“The initial fares, ranging from RM1 to RM12.60, were based on the gazetted bus fare structure for Sarawak, which was approved by the Cabinet on Sept 17, 2009 and enforced from Aug 1, 2009.
“Under this structure, fares were calculated at RM1.04 for the first 3km and RM0.18 for each subsequent km,” he explained.
In response to concerns over affordability, he added that LPKP Sarawak promptly initiated discussions with the Ministry of Transport (MOT), leading to the approval of a nationwide standard fare structure for BAS.MY services.
Kong said the swift adjustment, made just five days after the initial trial, reflects the agency’s commitment to making public transport more accessible and attractive to Sarawakians.
“As we continue to roll out BAS.MY Kuching, we will monitor operations closely and make necessary improvements to enhance the service,” he added.
