KANGAR: The cross-border ferry service between Kuala Perlis and Satun in southern Thailand is expected to begin within the next one to two weeks, according to Perlis Mentri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah.
The service will operate from the Kuala Perlis Ferry Terminal, adjacent to the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) jetty, which will serve as the main immigration and departure point for passengers travelling between Perlis and Satun.
Abu Bakar was quoted by Chinese daily Kwong Wah Yit Poh as saying that the project would be rolled out in three phases to ensure facilities and operational arrangements are fully in place.
"The first phase will be a trial operation, expected to start within the next one to two weeks.
"Current facilities and operational arrangements are sufficient to support one or two return trips daily," he said after inspecting preparations for the route with enforcement agencies and ferry operators on Tuesday (June 16).
He said the second phase would focus on upgrading infrastructure, including the construction of a floating jetty to overcome difficulties faced by vessels during low tide.
"The floating jetty will allow tourist boats to berth safely even during low tide, making it easier for passengers to board and disembark," he said.
Abu Bakar said the final phase would see the completion of all facilities, including the proposed integrated ferry terminal complex.
He said the route was originally scheduled to begin operations in May, but was delayed due to technical requirements and border security considerations.
He added that the state government had to coordinate with multiple enforcement agencies and relevant authorities, including arrangements for immigration and travel document inspections, before the service could commence.
To regulate the collection of management and service charges from ferry operators, Abu Bakar said the state government would table a related Bill at the upcoming state assembly sitting.
"Once the Bill is passed, the state government will have the legal authority to collect the charges.
"However, no additional fees will be imposed on operators during the initial stage before the legislation is approved," he said.
Abu Bakar said the state government is planning parking facilities near the jetty and has identified several suitable locations to accommodate travellers heading to Satun and ease traffic congestion.
He said discussions with ferry operators on ticket prices were in the final stage, with an announcement expected once the rates are finalised.
On the integrated terminal project, Abu Bakar said the state government had appointed Mentri Besar Incorporated (MBI) to oversee the development through its subsidiary, Perlis Holdings Sdn Bhd.
He said the company would manage all aspects of the project, including budgeting, funding and ticketing system operations.
He said the state government planned to award the construction contract within the next three months, allowing work on the terminal complex and site clearing to begin.
