Puchong is one of the areas where Trek Rides still operates its DRT service. However, the fare has increased and its operating hours are shorter. — Filepic
Puchong residents are calling on the Selangor government to oversee the fare charges imposed by private operators for the demand-responsive transit (DRT) service.
Puchong Hartamas resident Mike Chong, whose daughter uses the DRT service daily to school, said the fare had risen from RM2 to RM4.
He said the hike goes against the state government’s stated initiative to encourage more people to use public transport.
“The DRT service is a crucial last-mile solution as it bridges the gap between public transport hubs and final destinations, which is often challenging for commuters.
“Affordable last-mile services are essential for improving public transport adoption, reducing traffic congestion and minimising environmental impact.
“Low prices ensure that these benefits are accessible to everyone, fostering a more sustainable and connected transportation ecosystem,” he told StarMetro.
Chong was referring to DRT service provider Trek Rides’ announcement of fare increases in Puchong and Serdang, together with shorter operating hours.
It had also terminated its services in Taman Melawati, Taman Keramat and Ampang.
All five zones were formerly part of Selangor Mobility, a state government initiative to improve public transportation and mobility services in the state.
Trek Rides had also rolled out monthly passes priced between RM35 and RM80 to make travelling on its vans more affordable for regular users.
On March 12, Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated had called for a request for proposal (RFP) from companies to operate the DRT service under Selangor Mobility. The RFP deadline is April 7.
The statement said incentives for current DRT operators had been halted, pending the appointment of new service providers.
Chong criticised the state government for poor communication, claiming that there was no prior notice on the changes.
Chong says low prices ensure the benefits are accessible to everyone.
“The state government should also provide incentives to attract more people to make DRT the preferred mode of transport.
“There should also be accessible channels for commuters to obtain updated information on route changes and service disruptions.
“They should also be allowed to provide feedback or lodge complaints easily, ensuring a responsive and user-friendly experience,” he said.
A Bandar Puteri Puchong resident, who declined to be named, said public feedback on the DRT service must be collected periodically.
“Operators and authorities should avoid last-minute changes.
“The DRT’s coverage should also be widened to encourage greater usage,” the resident said.
When contacted, Selangor investment, trade and mobility committee chairman Ng Sze Han said during the RFP period, DRT service providers would not operate under the Selangor Mobility programme.
However, they could continue their operations based on their own business plans, he said.
The two DRT service providers previously operating under Selangor Mobility were Trek Rides and Mobi.
Mobi has terminated its service in all Selangor Mobility zones, namely in Taman Megah, Ara Damansara and Bandar Utama in Petaling Jaya as well as Bandar Sunway and USJ in Subang Jaya, effective March 14.
StarMetro reached out to Trek Rides and Mobi for comments but had not received a response as at press time.
