Cheaper flights during Raya travel period (Poll Inside)

Laying the foundation for education: Loke (centre) at the ground-breaking ceremony of SJK(C) Chun Yin, in Titi. Also present is Negri Sembilan agriculture, food security and cost of living acting committee chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias (on Loke’s right). — Bernama

Govt to cap ticket prices at RM599 to Sabah, S’wak and Labuan

JELEBU: One-way economy class flight tickets from the peninsula to Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, would be available at a maximum of RM599 for travel three days before Hari Raya, says Anthony Loke.

The Transport Minister said this initiative was part of the government’s efforts to assist people in travelling back to their hometowns for Hari Raya in April.

“We have a policy for all festivals, be it Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Gawai, Kaamatan, or Christmas. Three days before these celebrations, the government will set the maximum price (of flight tickets).

“However, in the peninsula, where alternative modes of transportation like buses and trains are available, no maximum price is set.

“Those who buy (airline tickets) early may get a cheaper price, but in the event of ticket shortages, prices may surge ... any increase exceeding RM599 will be covered by government subsidies for the three-day period,” he told reporters after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for a new school building here yesterday.

However, Loke said his ministry would seek the views of all parties, including the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), to determine the exact date of Aidilfitri before finalising the implementation of the maximum ticket price, Bernama reported.

“This year’s Hari Raya is expected to fall on a Wednesday or earlier. We anticipate that this year’s peak period (people returning to their hometowns) is on the Saturday and Sunday before Raya; therefore, the implementation period may be set on that weekend,” he said.

Loke added that certain airlines may offer fixed prices for particular night flights and provide additional flights.

“For example, AirAsia is gearing up to unveil a special deal featuring fixed, pocket-friendly fares for flights operating at night. These particular flights, only available a few times a day, are scheduled to be launched in March,” he said.

Meanwhile, in response to a question regarding individuals renting helicopters to return to their hometowns during festive seasons, Loke said that all flights must be registered with the appropriate authorities.