Kuching’s SBST programme to start operations this year
KUCHING: The Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme here is set to commence operations later this year.
This follows an agreement between Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and his federal counterpart Anthony Loke in a recent meeting held in Putrajaya.
Both ministers concurred on various matters related to the implementation of programmes and development projects, particularly in the transportation sector in Sarawak, with the implementation of the SBST programme being one of the key highlights.
“The primary objective of the SBST programme is to enhance the usage and services of public buses while reducing traffic congestion, especially in urban areas.
“The federal Ministry of Transport has allocated funds for SBST in Kuching, and tenders will be open to local bus companies operating in Sarawak.
“The programme will be supervised by the Sarawak Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP) and the Sarawak Transport Ministry,” said the Sarawak Transport Ministry in a statement.
Lee also urged the federal Transport Ministry to expedite the approval for the opening of new direct quotes for express bus services crossing borders, connecting Kuching and Singkawang, Indonesia through the Biawak ICS in Lundu.
“At present, the Kuching-Singkawang bus service operates on a transfer basis, requiring passengers to alight and change buses at the border before continuing their journey,” the statement read.
Lee hoped the route could be approved as soon as possible and implemented directly, similar to the Kuching-Pontianak route.
He also emphasised the need to reopen air routes between Kuching and Pontianak, citing its importance in boosting tourism, service sectors, and trade between the two regions in line with the development of the BIMP-EAGA area.
At the same time, he also welcomed the feasibility study for the Trans Borneo Railway (Sarawak-Sabah), which is scheduled to be conducted this year.
Meanwhile, Loke announced that priority will be given to the upgrading projects of the Kuching International Airport and Miri Airport in the 2025 Budget to be presented later this year.
Among those present at the meeting were Loke’s deputy Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, and Lee’s deputy Datuk Dr Jerip Susil.