LUNDU: The approval for the direct bus service agreement between Kuching and Singkawang in both directions has been gazetted and is awaiting approval from Putrajaya, says Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
The Sarawak Minister for Transport noted that this decision aligns with the outcomes of the BIMP-EAGA SOSE-MALINDO meeting, during which an agreement was reached to initiate bus services between Malaysia and Indonesia.
Discussions also included the Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Raden Sigit Witjaksono, exploring the possibility of extending bus services beyond Tebedu-Kuching to Pontianak.” he said at a press conference for the launch of the Kuching-Singkawang cross-border bus service in Biawak Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex today (Dec 19).
Lee mentioned that the current once-a-day bus service travels to the border, where passengers transfer using vans. As of Dec 1, approximately 500 passengers have utilised this service, but he pointed out that this arrangement is temporary.
He expressed the desire for a direct bus service model similar to Pontianak, enabling Kuching buses to travel directly to Singkawang and vice versa.
Cuurrently, two licenced bus companies, Bus Asia and Damri Bus, are actively serving these routes, with Damri Bus facilitating services between Kuching and Pontianak.”
In response to enquiries about the approval timeline, Lee stated that the ministry is closely monitoring developments and urging an expedited process.
Meanwhile, Raden said the agreement enhances connectivity, anticipating increased interaction and collaboration between Kalimantan Barat and Sarawak.
More than 50 individuals are entering Sarawak, and with the new route, socioeconomic, trade, and various other aspects are expected to significantly improve.”
Raden mentioned the establishment of a dedicated forum called Sosek Malindo, an annual event conducted on both sides of Kalimantan Barat and Sarawak, aimed at fostering greater collaboration through the establishment of additional routes in the future.
