LABUAN: The Labuan Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal will implement a new and upgraded ticketing system from Dec 1, aimed at providing a more convenient and flexible travel experience for commuters.
Labuan Point Enterprise manager Robert Ling Song Shieng said the enhanced system is designed to allow travellers to change their travel time without the need to queue at the counter, offering greater flexibility especially during peak travel periods.
He said the upgrade is also aligned with the government’s new implementation of e-invoicing, enabling smoother digital processes and improved record-keeping for both operators and passengers.
Ling explained that the online ticketing allocation would remain limited to about 30 to 40% of total capacity.
"This limitation is because ferry space is not fixed like a passenger aircraft. The actual load depends on the varying sizes of vehicles, from small cars to large lorries and trailers, and we must ensure safe and optimal loading,” he said on Wednesday (Nov 19).
Ling said the company apologised for the inconvenience caused by the recent long queues at the terminal.
He said the congestion occurred because of a temporary halt of the online ticketing system, which meant travellers had to queue at the terminal counters.
The situation was worsened by high demand for advance purchases ahead of the Sabah state election on Nov 29, the school holiday season, Christmas, and return travel to Labuan.
He said the company is anticipating a surge of 9,000 to 10,000 travellers for polling day, and double that volume during the school break and Christmas period, requiring additional crowd-control measures.
To ease the situation, Ling announced that from Thursday (Nov 19), the ticketing company will provide chairs and a tent behind the Marine Department building, located opposite the ticketing counter, for travellers waiting for their turn to buy tickets.
"Travellers will be given a queue number and can wait comfortably at the tent without having to stand in a long line. This is part of our immediate measure to manage the crowds while ensuring safety and comfort,” he said.
Ling added that the planned new system is expected to significantly reduce manual transactions and improve passenger flow at the terminal.
Labuan’s Ro-Ro ferry services remain a crucial transport link between the island and the Sabah mainland, supporting travel, trade and logistics especially during peak seasons. – Bernama
