BY VIVYNNA BUNSI ANN
KUCHING: Locals here are glad to hear the good news where the bus express fares will remain unchanged for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
Recently, Sarawak Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) said it decided not to follow the 10 per cent fare hike on express bus fares that is implemented in Peninsular Malaysia.
Speaking to New Sarawak Tribune, a 24-year-old university student, Nurul Amirah, expressed how beneficial the initiative is to her as a student.
She pointed out that she would normally spend around RM35 to RM40 to travel back to her hometown in Sri Aman.
“They should just maintain the bus fare, it can help to reduce the budget for transportation and help the B40 with their financial situation.”
She added that she also prefers taking the bus to go back to her hometown to avoid traffic jams and save time for other activities.
“Furthermore, it conserves my energy compared to driving alone,” she said, adding that she preferred buy her ticket online so that she can do a comparison of the fares.
Meanwhile, Laila Kiai also expressed her thankfulness for the initiative, as it would make it easier for her to return to her hometown during the festive season.
The 23-year old housewife highlighted the potential of the initiative to provide financial relief for students and underprivileged individuals, allowing them to return home and spend quality time with their families.
“If the initiative continues, I will continue to use the bus as my public transport during Christmas and Gawai Dayak Festival.”
As for Natalia Ramas, she also hoped that this bus fare will remain unchanged so that it help lessen students’ burden who want to travel back home during the weekend.
The 24-year-old student said she would normally spend RM68 on a bus shuttle from Kuching to Betong.
“I noticed that the prices vary, despite the fact that the destinations being the same. The fare for the journey from Kuching to Betong is RM35, while the fare for the return trip from Betong to Kuching is RM33.
“I prefer using the bus to travel back to my hometown. It is an affordable solution that can significantly reduce traffic jams, especially during holidays.”
For 27-year-old accountant, Veelincia Galih, she welcomes the good news, saying that she chooses to use the bus instead of her own car in order to be more mindful of her budget.
“Bus fares are considerably cheaper compared to flight tickets. When driving, I have to take into account the cost of fuel and beverages.
“On the other hand, I can also rest (in the bus).”
Veelincia also mentioned that she really enjoyed riding on the bus because of its spacious legroom and comfortable seats, especially during long rides, like from Niah to Kuching.
