Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook reminds operators of the Short-distance Bus Service Transformation (SBST) or Bas.My that they must adhere to schedules and routes irrespective of passenger presence.
He stated this to ensure service efficiency, and operators not adhering to regulations as monitored via the Global Positioning System (GPS) will be penalized.
“The frequency of bus services has improved compared to before. Bas.My services are government-funded, so even without passengers, operators do not incur losses. Under the old model, it relied on private companies, which sometimes reduced services on unprofitable routes.
“Under this plan, there is no allowance or reason to reduce services, as reducing services will forfeit payments. We pay based on the number of trips, and buses must operate regardless of having no passengers or just one. We hope the service frequency is reliable.”
He said this to reporters after attending the launch ceremony of SBSTA or Seremban BAS.MY Package A.
Loke mentioned that Seremban Bas.My covers seven local government jurisdictions, including Seremban City Council, Port Dickson Municipal Council, Jempol Municipal Council, Jelebu District Council, Kuala Pilah, Rembau, and Tampin.
He stated the plan involves 85 new buses, including 18 long buses, 61 minibuses, and mini low-floor buses, as well as two passenger vans, featuring a vibrant pink design and equipped with CCTV and LED displays to show bus numbers and destinations.
He said to improve service quality, an unlimited travel monthly pass is introduced, where passengers can pay RM50 for unlimited rides on the 21 routes of Seremban Bas.My for 30 days.
“Additionally, a Bas.My concession card is launched for senior citizens aged 60 and above, disabled persons, and students aged 7 to 17. By registering for RM10, they can enjoy free fares. Starting January 1, 2025, the concession card will extend to tertiary students. Bas.My Medik services will also be introduced next year.”
He hopes the state government will continue to strive and invest in enhancing the Seremban Bas.My service ecosystem, including upgrading public transport terminals and bus stations with clear information board facilities and safe pedestrian pathways.
He pointed out that the federal government invests RM178.5 million over five years or RM35.7 million annually in Seremban Bas.My services, which is lower than the previous RM48.4 million annually for the same routes and services.
He said since the launch of Seremban Bas.My services, passenger numbers have significantly increased from 60,827 in August to 90,435 last month.