KUCHING: Sarawak's Transport Ministry will look into the need for more rest and relaxation (R&R) facilities along the Pan Borneo Highway.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the highway lacked sufficient R&R facilities to serve the rising number of long-distance bus services, passengers and motorists.
He said the ministry will convene a meeting with bus operators to get their views and identify suitable locations for future facilities.
"We want to hear feedback from bus operators, passengers and individual motorists.
"They can suggest suitable locations where we need to develop more R&R facilities," he told reporters after launching Mutiara Borneo Sdn Bhd's coach service with a new fleet of double-decker buses on Tuesday (July 14).
Lee said the ministry will study the feedback and recommendations with the state Public Works Department (JKR).
The proposals will then be conveyed to the federal JKR for further action, as the Pan Borneo Highway falls under the Federal Government's jurisdiction.
"I hope the federal JKR will consider developing additional R&R facilities at suitable locations.
"This will enhance the safety, comfort and convenience of all road users, particularly passengers and drivers of long-distance bus services," he said.
Lee said the number of bus services and passengers had increased following the completion of the highway, along with other long-distance roads and major bridges.
"I'm confident bus services will continue to expand in future as road travel becomes faster and more convenient.
"This is why we want feedback from bus operators, because they know which locations need R&R facilities," he said.
Earlier in his speech, Lee said public transport in Sarawak must evolve in tandem with improving road infrastructure.
He said the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway and the construction of 21 bridges by the state government will enhance connectivity across Sarawak.
"Better roads and stronger connectivity will enable operators such as Mutiara Borneo to provide more efficient and dependable services, making intercity bus travel an increasingly attractive option for the public," he said.
