Kota bharu: The Federal Government dedicates an annual budget exceeding RM200 million to the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST), known as BAS.My, across the country. Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that public engagement with the service has been positive and continues to grow, with notable uptake in Kelantan, where BAS.My has been operational for more than six months.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Loke highlighted that despite the official launch occurring today, passenger numbers had already been on the rise in recent months. He mentioned the service's favorable reception among senior citizens, students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Kelantan. This feedback was echoed by Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, who reported an enthusiastic response from local residents, including those in his constituency.
The minister attributed the increase in ridership to the availability of concession passes and free fares for eligible groups, urging these groups to take full advantage of the service. BAS.My operates under a fixed-cost model, with the government compensating operators monthly based on scheduled trips and distances, independent of passenger numbers. This model mitigates financial risks for operators, allowing them to invest in new buses without concern for passenger fluctuations.
In Kelantan alone, the government allocates over RM21 million each year to sustain BAS.My. While ridership trends are generally positive nationwide, Loke noted variances between states due to differing travel patterns and levels of public acceptance. He expressed hope for high usage rates in Kelantan, emphasizing the uniform application of policies like concession passes and free fares for PWDs, senior citizens, and students.
Furthermore, Loke discussed the government's efforts to reduce commuter costs, referencing the BAS.My 30-Day Unlimited Travel Pass. Launched in August 2023 at RM50, the pass price will decrease to RM30 in November 2025, following recommendations by the Land Public Transport Agency. This reduction means substantial savings for commuters, such as those traveling from Tumpat to Kota Bharu, who would save about 71% on travel expenses.
The BAS.My Kota Bharu service operates 16 routes across 11 local authority areas, including the Kota Bharu Municipal Council and various district councils. The service fleet consists of 64 buses, including eight electric midi buses, 24 low-floor mini buses, and 32 mini buses, all equipped with modern amenities to ensure passenger safety and comfort.