PETALING JAYA: The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) in Malaysia has weighed in on the shortage of bus captains in the country.
In a statement yesterday, CILT Malaysia secretary-general Dr Mohd Nasir Alias said as a professional body representing the logistics and transportation industries in the nation, CILT Malaysia viewed the recent issue of bus driver shortage with great concern following its extensive engagement with players in the transport ecosystem.
As an industry lead body (ILB) for the logistics and transport industry, CILT Malaysia has been working with the various stakeholders to raise the quality of professionalism in the industry.
“This was demonstrated especially in facing the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, whereby CILT Malaysia managed to bring together the Malaysia Shipowners Association, Freight Forwarding Associations, port operators as well as port authorities for dialogues to increase awareness as well as putting up recommendation towards a solution.
“One of the main areas identified during these sessions was driver shortage, for buses or trucks,” said Mohd Nasir, who added that a key challenge in attracting drivers was the perception that there was “no future”.
“Consequently, CILT Malaysia has come up with a programme to develop drivers into a talent management group with a clear career path. Apart from being trained on the aspects of driver competency and skills, the career path would allow the drivers to plan their future better.
“Additionally, efforts should be made to improve working conditions and remunerations for bus drivers to encourage more to join the industry, and this includes ensuring that drivers are provided with proper rest breaks and adequate remuneration,” said Mohd Nasir, who also expressed his concern for the shortage of drivers in the bus industry, especially during the festive season.
He said it was crucial that measures were taken to address this issue to ensure Malaysians would be able to travel safely.
“The high cost of obtaining the licences to become a bus driver is a contributing factor to the shortage of drivers. The government should consider reviewing the fees and providing financial assistance to those who wish to pursue a career in the bus industry.
“We understand the challenges faced by bus operators during this festive season, and we hope that the relevant authorities will take urgent action to address the shortage of drivers,” said Mohd Nasir, adding that CILT Malaysia and its partners, such as the Malaysia Institute of Transport, were ready to work with the Transport Ministry to address the shortage of drivers.
