Ministry welcomes ideas on how to get cheaper electric buses

THE Transport Ministry welcomes ideas on ways to obtain more affordable electric buses for public transportation, says minister Anthony Loke.

“We welcome ideas, just as how Sarawak has introduced its first hydrogen-powered bus service under a joint pilot project,” he said in reply to Datuk Dr Zulkafperi Hanapi (PN-Tanjong Karang).

Loke added that the ministry faced problems buying electric buses as they cost twice more than buses using conventional fuel.

There are not enough charging stations to ensure the buses are properly utilised, he added.

On another matter, Loke said he welcomed groups who can provide transportation services for residents in rural areas as such areas have low bus ridership.

On services, he said the ministry is introducing the “Demand Responsive Transit” in areas where the public could receive transport services via a phone app.

At present, Loke said the government invested RM115mil each year for the my50 initiative, which is a 30-day travel pass for all Rapid KL services including rail and bus rides.

“The ministry has also invested RM105mil each year under the Interim Stage Bus Service Fund to help local bus operators, who face losses due to high operational costs, to continue their operations,” he said.

Loke added that the ministry also channelled RM150mil for the myBAS stage bus services.

This, he said, would be expanded in phases to more cities nationwide.