Zairil (left) and Yew showing documents which include proposed sites for piers around the island that can be used for the water taxi service.
PENANG’S waterways could soon be fully maximised with the introduction of a water taxi service in 2024.
Touted as the first proper water taxi service in the country, it will function as an alternative mode of transport for locals as well as double up as a tourist attraction in the state.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang said the city council had obtained conditional approval from the Transport Ministry on Oct 18 to call for a Request for Proposal (RFP).
He said four proposed pier locations – Straits Quay, Weld Quay, Pantai Jerejak and Batu Maung – had been identified as the basic requirements for the RFP.
“We also welcome the RFP participants to propose more pier locations according to their feasibility study report. We are happy to consider them,” Yew said during a press conference at Komtar.
Also present was Penang infrastructure and transport committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, who said the RFP was advertised on Dec 12 and proposals would be accepted until next Feb 27.
“The RFP is open to all local companies and the bidder has to be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) or registered with the Registrar of Societies (RoS).
“They must also have a minimum paid-up capital of RM500,000 and it is compulsory for them to attend the briefings that will be conducted.
“Among components of the RFP are preparing the preliminary feasibility study report, proposal of jetty locations, specifications of vessels, financial model and duration of implementation,” he added.
Zairil said the service would be easily accessible by the public and would alleviate traffic congestion.
“It will enable long-distance travel within the city as well as for tourism purposes,” he said.
Companies interested to participate may visit ep.penang.gov.my to purchase the relevant documents online.
