KUCHING: The Malaysian School Bus Operators and Drivers Coalition has urged the government to safeguard the future of school bus services in Sarawak through targeted assistance.
President of the Association of Malaysian School Bus Operators and Drivers (PGPPBSM), Dr. Muruga Malai urged the Sarawak government to extend greater support to school bus operators.
He said many school bus operators in Sarawak have yet to receive diesel subsidy cards unlike in Peninsular Malaysia, placing additional financial strain on the industry amid rising operating costs.
“Most school bus operators today are senior citizens and single mothers rather than young people.
“Without government assistance, including diesel subsidies, it will become increasingly difficult for them to continue operating,” he said during a press conference at Hap Chen Hian Satay House Satok, here, today.
He also urged the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP) Sarawak to raise the maximum operating age for school buses from 30 to 33 years, noting that many older buses remain roadworthy and that operators in Peninsular Malaysia are already allowed to operate buses for up to 32 years.
“Many operators simply cannot afford to purchase new buses. If the vehicles are still in good condition and have passed PUSPAKOM inspections, they should be allowed to continue operating for up to 33 years.
“The priority is ensuring the safety of our nation’s children while allowing operators to sustain their livelihoods,” he said.
Muruga also called on the authorities to allow the licensing of school buses, aged between 20 and 29 years, as replacement vehicles in line with the practice in Peninsular Malaysia, saying the move would help small-scale operators continue serving their communities.
He further added an exemption from the mandatory installation of Speed Limit Devices (SLDs) for school buses that operate only within three neighbouring districts and cover short daily routes at controlled speeds.
“This exemption would help reduce operating costs for school bus operators without compromising safety, especially as profit margins are already very low. I am concerned that more operators may leave the industry if the financial burden continues,” he said.
In addition, Muruga proposed financial assistance for school bus operators during the year-end school holidays in November and December, when services are suspended and operators experience a significant loss of income.
He said that if no action is taken to address these challenges, school bus services could eventually disappear altogether.
“I have been driving school buses for more than 49 years and take pride in having transported students who have gone on to become ministers, doctors, lecturers and other professionals.
“We are proud of our work because we have played a role in helping educate and shape future generations,” he said.
He also hoped the government would formally recognise the contributions of school bus operators, saying such appreciation would honour their years of service and encourage more people to remain in the profession.
