Express buses at the new TBG, which is set to officially open on March 22. - Photo: Bernama
GOMBAK: The Gombak Integrated Terminal (TBG) has begun receiving passengers arriving from the East Coast, despite official operations at its location on the Middle Ring Road 2 near the Gombak Toll Plaza starting only on March 22.
A survey by Bernama found that the terminal was relatively quiet on Saturday (March 15), with only a few buses seen dropping off passengers before continuing their journey to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS).
Terminal Bersepadu Gombak Sdn Bhd (Tegas) founder and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzlim Mohd Noor, said that only 18 buses would stop at the terminal on Saturday (March 15).
"Not many buses are stopping here since we are still in the trial period. The first bus from Kelantan is scheduled to arrive at 5.30am on Sunday (March 16).
"We have notified food and beverage operators to open their shops to facilitate passengers who wish to have sahur (pre-dawn meal)," he told the media after inspecting the terminal on Saturday (March 15).
He said that although official operations would commence on March 22, the public could start purchasing tickets for Hari Raya Aidilfitri travel on all routes.
Meanwhile, R. Deepan, 39, a private-sector employee from Kuantan, Pahang, said his journey to Kuala Lumpur has become more convenient as he no longer needs to stop at TBS, especially since his workplace is near TBG.
"I usually disembark at TBS, but with TBG now available, it's much easier for me to travel since my workplace is nearby.
"Ticket purchases are also convenient as they can be done online," he said.
The information counter at TBG. - Photo: BernamaSimilarly, Muhamad Amirul Malik, 21, a public university student in Bangsar, said that TBG reduces travel time to the city. He no longer has to deal with heavy traffic to reach TBS, especially during peak hours, since his bus can take a more direct route.
"In the past, when returning to university, I had to get off at TBS and then take either a bus or Light Rail Transit (LRT), which took a considerable amount of time to reach the city," he explained.
Housewife Nur Amira Syahirah Muslim, 32, is excited about the opening of TBG, as it will provide convenience for East Coast residents travelling to Kuala Lumpur for work or study.
She was also pleased with the various facilities available at the terminal, including food outlets, ample parking, and a surau, which enhance passenger comfort.
TBG is a major transportation hub for East Coast travel, connecting Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan with various other destinations, including those in the northern region of Malaysia.
In addition to express buses, TBG integrates intercity buses, the Gombak LRT station, and the upcoming East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Gombak station, which is currently 79% completed.
TBG offers 1,200 parking spaces and will create 3,000 job opportunities essential for the terminal's operations. – Bernama
A look at the new Gombak Integrated Terminal. - Photos by Bernama
Express buses at the new TBG, which is set to officially open on March 22. - Photo: Bernama
The comfortable waiting area at TBG.
Various food and beverage vendors have already opened shop in TBG.
The e-gates leading to the departure lounge.
The bus parking bays at TBG.
