GEORGE TOWN: There is no plan to bring back the iconic Penang ferry for passenger services, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said operating the old ferry service is technically challenging as it is difficult to source replacement parts and its incompatibility with the new ferry terminals.
"When the previous decision (was made) to change to the new ferry, the terminal was changed as well.
"In order for us to revive the old iconic ferry services, we need to build another terminal, which is not possible at this time," he told reporters after the inauguration of the Penang Floating Ferry Museum here on Monday (Jan 12).
One of the iconic ferries has been converted into a museum for heritage preservation, while another is being turned into a floating restaurant and both are intended to remain as tourist attractions.
Loke also said there are four ferries plying the current passenger service routes, which can be increased to the contractual maximum of five if demand rises.
On profitability, Loke said the Penang ferry service is not intended to generate profits as fares are regulated by the government.
He said ferry operations are part of a cross-subsidy model under the Penang Port privatisation plan, which also mandates public service obligations, including 12 days of free ferry service annually during public holidays and festive periods.
The minister also spoke of plans to redevelop Tanjung City Marina and its surrounding areas including Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) and Padang Kota Lama into a public-friendly waterfront via a private finance initiative (PFI).
He said the aim is to create a pedestrian walkway of over one-kilometre in length where the public can enjoy sea views with cafes and tourism amenities, turning Penang into a cruise tourism hub.
"This is a plan we are reviewing right now, and hopefully within this year we can approve the entire plan, because right now there are pockets of different tenders going on," he added. – Bernama
