Penang: The Penang Port Commission (SPPP) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) have announced free ferry services for all Malaysians in conjunction with the Wesak Day celebration on May 12. SPPP chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin stated that the free fares would be available for both directions from Sultan Abdul Halim Pier on the mainland in Butterworth to Raja Tun Uda Pier on the island and vice-versa.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative covers both directions between the two terminals, with the first trip from Sultan Abdul Halim Pier starting at 6.30 am and the last trip at 11 pm to the island. From Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda, the first trip is scheduled for 7 am, with the last ferry departing at 11.30 pm to the mainland. The public is encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and check the latest ferry schedules through the official websites and social media pages of SPPP and PPSB.

Yeoh stated that the free ferry service aims to reduce traffic congestion in Penang and promote more sustainable and efficient public transportation. He highlighted that last year's Wesak Day ferry service saw over 4,391 foot passengers and 1,584 two-wheeled vehicles utilizing the service. This contributed to the overall number of foot passengers in 2024, which reached 2.13 million, along with 747,785 two-wheeled vehicle passengers.