LANGKAWI: Residents here are calling for government intervention to address the recent reduction in ferry trips to the Kedah island, which is disrupting tourism and their daily lives.
The call was made by representatives of several non-governmental organisations during a peaceful gathering attended by hundreds at the Kuah Passenger Jetty Terminal on Sunday evening.
Kedah Anak Muda Madani chairman Zuraidi Rahim said there has been a reduction in ferry trips from five to three daily since March 25, resulting in a decline in tourist arrivals to the island.
“This situation is affecting Langkawi residents who depend on tourism, especially small traders.
“If it continues for another month or two, the island’s economy could deteriorate further,” he told the media at the gathering, as reported by Bernama.
He said the peaceful gathering was done in line with the law and was intended to pressure ferry operators to end the rationing immediately.
Zuraidi noted that the government had introduced a targeted bunker fuel surcharge, effective on Monday, as a temporary measure to offset rising diesel costs.
As such, he urged ferry operators to restore up to eight daily trips to boost tourist arrivals and ease travel for the public.
“If rationing continues, we call on the government to allow more operators to provide ferry services to Langkawi,” he added.
Langkawi Tourism Association chairman Zainudin Kadir claimed that nearly a month of reduced ferry services has resulted in a noticeable drop in tourist arrivals, particularly among domestic visitors.
“About 70% of tourists rely on ferry services to reach Langkawi.
“When trips are reduced, it slows down the inflow.
“Many travel agent counters here are now closed,” he said.
Meanwhile, Langkawi District Bus Drivers Association chairman Mohamad Syukri Saad said numerous transport bookings were cancelled this month due to the limited ferry schedule.
“Fewer trips make it difficult for tourists, especially large groups, to arrive early and maximise their time on the island,” he explained.
For resident Ramli Ahmad, who is deputy chairman of the Langkawi District Senior Citizens Association, the rationing has made it increasingly difficult to secure ferry tickets.
“In the past, it was easy to get tickets because there were more trips.
“Now, tickets sell out quickly,” he said, adding that residents now have to rely on RoRo services in cases of emergencies.
Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd general manager Dr Baharin Baharom had previously explained that the reduction in trips was necessary to ensure service continuity and avoid a complete halt of operations due to rising diesel costs.
The company had no choice but to scale back operations following the sharp increase in fuel prices, he added.
