ALOR SETAR: The new Kuala Kedah Jetty terminal, scheduled for completion at the end of 2027, will accommodate up to 3,000 passengers, compared with the current capacity of 800, says the Transport Minister.
Anthony Loke said the RM245mil project to demolish, rebuild and upgrade the Kuala Kedah passenger, cargo and roll-on/roll-off (Roro) ferry terminal and jetty, which began in 2024, will significantly enhance maritime transport facilities in the area.
“The project represents a strategic government investment in strengthening maritime connectivity and stimulating economic activities in the northern region, mainly Kedah.
“The terminal is also designed to accommodate three large passenger vessels at a time, to improve the flow of passengers and goods,” he said at the Maritime Competency Recognition and Local Company Empowerment Ceremony for the demolition, construction and upgrading of the Kuala Kedah Passenger, Cargo and Roro Terminal near here yesterday, Bernama reported.
Loke said the project, undertaken by his ministry, was in line with the National Transport Policy 2019-2030, which emphasised strengthening transport connectivity, optimising infrastructure utilisation and enhancing the country’s competitiveness.
“We recognise that good terminal and jetty facilities are essential in ensuring smooth, safe and comfortable transport services,” he said.
He said all 65 participants had successfully obtained the Domestic Mate (Open) Certificate, marking an important step towards ensuring efficient and safe maritime operations.
“Infrastructure alone is not enough. We also need skilled workers and an industry that is fully prepared to support operations,” he added.
At another event, Loke said the issue of sedimentation at the ferry lane in waters off Kuala Kedah required a more sustainable, long-term solution to ensure the smooth operation of ferry services to Langkawi.
He said dredging work was carried out every two years to prevent sedimentation from disrupting operations.
However, the minister said a more comprehensive solution must be sought.
“There are physical constraints because the passenger terminal currently under development is situated at its original location.
“Reclaiming land from the sea or developing new areas will be prohibitively expensive.
“We are seeking a long-term solution to address this sedimentation issue,” he added.
Loke encouraged existing and new ferry operators to expand their services and increase trip frequencies to better meet the needs of users,” he said after presenting RM1,000 aid vouchers to 351 taxi and rental car drivers from Kedah and Perlis.
