Lee (in yellow) and others at the trial run of the free service.
Programme aims to promote sustainable, more efficient commuting culture
People in Miri, Sarawak, are now able to enjoy the free Miri City Smart Bus service introduced on Wednesday.
Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, who took a ride on the bus during the service’s trial run, said it was the first time Miri city had a free bus service that was supported by the state government.
He urged students to use the service, which operates daily from 5.30am to 7.30pm.
He said the initiative was aimed at encouraging more students to use public transport, while promoting a sustainable and more efficient commuting culture in the city.
“With this smart bus service, I have fulfilled my promise to introduce a new modern bus for the people in Miri,” he added.
One of the Miri smart buses.
There are 14 brand-new smart buses covering eight main routes under the programme.
The service is expected to benefit students and the elderly.
The eight routes are Permy Jaya (four buses), Sungai Rait/Bakam (one), RTM/Pujut 2 (one), Kuala Baram (one), Hospital (one), Riam/Taman Tunku (two), Senadin (two) and Tudan (two).
The vehicle is equipped with a tracking device that allows people to monitor the bus schedule and real-time location through a mobile application that is expected to be activated after the launch.
Once operational, the mobile app will allow passengers to easily check bus arrival times and current locations, ensuring they can plan their journeys more efficiently.
The bus service had its maiden trial run around Miri city last Tuesday.
