Local buses missing the basics

A bus stop in Malaysia with much-needed information to help passengers get on the right route. — Filepic

WHEN I was in Hong Kong last year, getting around on public transport was a breeze.

I just needed to Google my destination for a range of options including buses, trams and rapid transit.

Bus search results provided the service number, which stop to alight at, transport changes if any, and distance of the last stretch on foot.

With all the needed information given, I began my journey at a bus stop that was just a pole displaying the route numbers.

On the bus, announcements included the coming stops so that riders are fully aware of where they are on the journey.

There was also a display on the number of stops to my destination.

The entire experience was incredibly easy, without the need for a bus company app.

That made me wonder: “Why can’t we have the same experience back home?”

So my colleague and I decided to test Malaysia’s public bus experience.

We found that while most of our local bus stops have seats and a canopy, they generally fail to display crucial commuter information.

For instance, route numbers aren’t always shown, making it difficult for new commuters to know which bus to take.

We also found that not every bus announces or displays an upcoming stop.

So, how does a person know if they have reached their destination?

The answer is, they would have to look out the window to determine where they are.

The stop’s name, the buses that halt there and a bus route map should be the minimum mandatory information given.

Although such data can be found online, convenience influences choice, so our buses should be equipped with an LED screen and audio announcement system.

User-friendly public transport makes it a viable top option for people.

In Hong Kong, the convenience of the bus system made it my go-to choice, proving that when infrastructure is good, people will be more inclined to use public transport.

In Malaysia, inadequate information at bus stops and on buses create significant barriers to accessibility, deterring and intimidating new users.

Ultimately, if we want to get people to use public transport instead of private cars, we should ensure facilities are top-notch.

It would make a world of difference, promoting public transport as a first choice instead of last resort.

So, here’s hoping we get our act together soon.