JERANTUT, March 19 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has warned that express bus operators who unlawfully raise ticket prices for economy-class services ahead of the Aidilfitri festive season may face strict action, including licence revocation. The Ministry of Transport has received complaints about fare hikes, particularly on routes from the capital to the East Coast.
Loke emphasized that while executive-class buses have flexible pricing, economy-class fares are regulated and cannot be increased arbitrarily. He has directed the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to investigate the matter, noting that operators are only allowed a 10% surcharge during festive periods, a policy in place for over two decades. Meanwhile, Loke also announced that integrated enforcement operations will be conducted nationwide from March 24 to April 8 to monitor traffic violations during Aidilfitri.
In Pahang alone, 36 hotspot locations have been identified for Road Transport Department (JPJ) monitoring. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of road safety through the Helmet Exchange Programme, where 500 new helmets were distributed to Jerantut residents. Loke stressed that many helmets exchanged were no longer safe for use, reinforcing the need for motorcyclists and pillion riders to wear high-quality helmets to ensure maximum protection.
