Explore new ferry routes in Penang, PPSB told


Loke: We can have a new jetty along the coast in Bayan Lepas

GEORGE TOWN: Ferry operator Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) has been told to explore new routes between the island and mainland, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

He said the matter should be looked into as there are those who live in the mainland but work in the free industrial zone in Bayan Lepas.

“We have proposed to the ferry operator to look at other points between the mainland and island where jetties can be built.

“We can have a new jetty along the coast in the Bayan Lepas area.

“The ministry has proposed the ferry operator do a feasibility study on the possibility of new routes in Penang.

“The ferry services should not be confined to carrying passengers from the Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal on the mainland to the Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal on the island and vice-versa only,” he said after the official launch of the new ferry service at the Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal here yesterday.

He said PPSB could also look into working with several operators of privately-owned jetties in the state.

“If there is demand, the ministry will have no problem offering new ferry routes in Penang,” he added.

Loke said the first week had seen about 50,000 passengers and 20,000 motorcyclists using the new ferry service that began on Aug 7.

He added that the new ferry service should also be made available for private charters or tourism purposes.

“PPSB can offer any private companies or corporate sectors that want to rent the ferry for events, or any tour agencies that want to bring their tourists to explore Penang through sea routes.

“The operator can venture into this possibility and turn it into a tourism product for Penang,” said Loke.

He added that there were plans to turn the old ferries that had been decommissioned into tourism products.

The launching of the new ferries was officiated by Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Nation

UPNM bullying case: Man to be charged tomorrow, say KL cops
Anwar lauds China’s vision of shared future, calls for stronger ties
Unemployment man fined RM15,000 for uploading offensive post on Pahang Sultanate
Firefighters brave rush hour traffic to rescue kitten trapped under flyover
JS-SEZ agreement to be finalised at upcoming leaders retreat in Putrajaya
Concerted effort needed to resolve issue of illegal foreign-run businesses, says Saifuddin
Flying lemur rescued from Tg Bungah apartment
PAC recommends PM's Dept review relevance of National Professors Council
Six Bangladeshi nationals arrested for illegal money lending in Muar, RM176,250 seized
Madani plates: 'If he wants to sue, let him try his luck,' says Loke

Others Also Read