KUALA LUMPUR: There are no special coaches exclusively for women on the LRT, KL Monorail and MRT because the space on such trains needs to be optimised, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
"An efficient use of space allows for more passengers and this is very important when trains are operating during peak hours," said Transport Minister Anthony Loke in a parliamentary written reply dated March 20.
However, he noted that Prasarana staff and auxiliary police are always present to assist commuters and ensure safety.
Loke also said the LRT, KL Monorail and MRT only have two to four coaches for each train but have a high frequency, which makes it impractical to include another coach specifically for women.
"This could lead to congestion in the special coach. This is different from intercity trains such as the KTM Komuter with six coaches, which allows them to have special coaches for women," said Loke.
It was reported in 2018 that KTM Komuter had 76 special coaches for women.
Loke was responding to Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (PH-Bandar Tun Razak), who asked if special women's coaches would be introduced for the LRT, KL Monorail and MRT.
Wan Azizah also asked about measures to address allegations that Road Transport Department (JPJ) officers are involved in abuse of power and wrongdoing.
Loke said a JPJ integrity plan is being drafted, involving several activities and programs.
"The Transport Ministry is also monitoring integrity issues among JPJ staff through enforcement action, prevention and education to curb all forms of corruption," added Loke.
