Are Penang trishaws losing their lustre?

GEORGE TOWN: Despite being part of the “living heritage” in Penang, trishaws are facing pressure from development and changing lifestyles.

Once a mainstay of public transport for housewives and students, trishaws now usually serve tourists and visitors who want to take a step back in time but even this is under threat.

Trishawman Lee Beng Leong, in his 60s, said people now were not interested in going for trishaw rides.

He said there were other transportation options for visitors to choose from including buses, taxis, vehicle and bicycle rentals and ride-sharing options.

“I think they prefer the comfort and convenience the other choices offer,” he said when met.

Tourists theSun spoke to seem to bear this out as Robert Skinner, in his 60s, from Colorado USA, said he preferred to use the taxi or bus during his Penang stay.

“I like trishaws, they look beautifully quaint, but I think the price is a bit high compared with taxi or bus fares,” he said.

Frenchman Ewen Plougastel, in his 30s, echoed similar sentiments as he felt RM20 for a 20-minute ride was slightly pricey.

“My family and I do enjoy taking the trishaw, it is an interesting experience but I do not think it is worth a repeat,” he said, adding he would take the bus next time to get around town.

Trishawman Chew Kam Ching, 66, meanwhile said bicycle rentals had affected his income as people chose to rent bikes to go about on their own. – by Ong Xin Yi