GEORGE TOWN, June 12 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized that express and school bus operators should refrain from raising fares despite the recent implementation of targeted diesel subsidies in the peninsula. Loke clarified that these bus operators continue to benefit from diesel subsidies through subsidised diesel fleet cards, hence there is no justification for fare increases. Addressing concerns about potential fare hikes, Loke assured that express bus fares are regulated by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), preventing arbitrary increases.
While acknowledging that school bus fares are not under direct government control, Loke encouraged dialogue between operators and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to address any concerns. Regarding tour buses, Loke noted that the tourism sector does not receive diesel subsidies, suggesting that any cost increases may be acceptable for tourists. Furthermore, Loke expressed readiness to provide a comprehensive briefing to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad regarding the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) project.
Following Dr Mahathir’s recent comments questioning the transparency of the project. Loke emphasized his respect for Dr Mahathir’s stature but clarified that information about the RTS Link project has been made available, offering to provide Dr Mahathir with additional details if necessary.
