LABUAN: Labuan and mainland Sabah will be connected by ferries again, with the service between the duty-free island and Kota Kinabalu resuming operations on Dec 15, says Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
The resumption of the once- popular ferry express service, which was forced to cease operations for nearly three years due to low traffic during the Covid-19 pandemic, is expected to address long-standing accessibility challenges as well as revitalise its tourism sector by encouraging tourism packages offering Sabah and Labuan experiences, according to the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories).
“We will never ignore Labuan’s need for improved accessibility... this effort is crucial not only for the local community but also for boosting visitor numbers.
“The enhanced connectivity is expected to attract more visitors and foster economic growth in the region,” Dr Zaliha said in an exclusive interview with Bernama in conjunction with her serving as FT Minister for a year.
She also said that the government plans to extend the 50% travel subsidy currently available to roll-on, roll-off ferry passengers and vehicles to those using the ferry express service as it would ease travel costs for commuters.
