GEORGE TOWN, December 31 — The Penang State Government has announced the continuation of funding for the Pas Mutiara program and free CAT Bridge buses in 2026, following strong public response. A total of 280,000 Pas Mutiara cardswill be funded next year with an allocation of RM7 million.
Allowing Rapid Penang bus services to remain free across the state. Since its introduction in March 2021, Pas Mutiara subscriptions have steadily increased, with nearly 247,000 passes subscribed or renewed in 2025, averaging over 22,000 per month.
In addition, the state will maintain 15 free CAT Bridge buses, with 10 serving the CAT 13 route from Seberang Jaya to Bayan Lepas and five on the CAT 14 route from Bukit Mertajam to Komtar. State officials believe the continued subsidy.
Will encourage more residents to shift from private vehicles to public transport, while users also benefit from cost savings on fuel, parking, and tolls. The initiative is expected to further enhance public transport usage as major infrastructure projects continue across Penang.
