Steeped in history: Loke (third from left) on a walkabout at the Penang Ferry Museum after its launch. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The proposed Penang water taxi project has to undergo a comprehensive approval process before it can be realised, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said the water-based transport will be subject to strict safety, licensing and technical requirements.
“We are open to proposals for water taxi services, particularly from private investors, but they must comply with licensing requirements and safety regulations,” he said after inspecting new diesel buses for Rapid Penang at Padang Kota Lama here yesterday.
On the current ferry services between Penang Sentral and George Town, he said this was operating well.
“Over the past two years, the new ferries have carried a large number of passengers and received positive feedback.
“In terms of reliability, comfort and overall service, the new ferries are performing well.”
On the proposed water taxi, he said there were several technical and regulatory issues that still needed to be addressed.
“A key issue is the identification and construction of proper landing points or jetties. It is not just about the boats. The landing points are equally important.”
Loke said the jetties fell under different jurisdictions and must meet safety standards regulated by the Maritime Department in cooperation with the state government where land matters were involved.
He said previous proposals did not adequately address safety oversight, licensing requirements and jetty locations, which led to delays.
“As long as all technical, safety and regulatory requirements are met, we are open to considering water taxi services in Penang,” he said.
In May last year, the state government said plans to introduce a water taxi service had been postponed after the selected company failed to meet approval conditions set by relevant agencies.
State Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the project, which had received conditional approval from the Transport Ministry, failed to secure clearance from agencies including the Marine Department, Penang Port Commission, the District and Land Office and the Maritime Department.
The service had been proposed to operate at four jetty locations and was expected to begin in 2024.
On bus services, Loke said Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd planned to acquire up to 1,600 electric buses nationwide in phases between 2026 and 2031 as part of a major fleet renewal programme.
“In the first phase, 250 electric buses will be procured, with deliveries scheduled from March 2026 to March 2027.
“Of these, 175 units will go to Rapid Kuala Lumpur and 75 units to Rapid Penang, with operations in Penang expected to begin in May,” he said.
“Rapid Penang has begun its fleet replacement programme with the acquisition of 70 new diesel buses, which will be the final batch before the transition to electric buses,” said Loke.
Rapid Penang currently operates 310 buses, many of which were over 10 years old, and are due for replacement.
