Pengkalan chepa: The East Coast Bus Association (PEBAT) has urged the government to consider providing diesel subsidies to the tour bus industry to remain competitive in uncertain economic times. Its deputy president, Wan Mohd Nuhairi Wan Hamat, emphasized that without the subsidy, the operational costs would surge due to the high price of diesel and spare parts, putting many operators at risk of shutting down.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PEBAT represents approximately 1,000 tour bus operators with a fleet of 5,000 buses. The association argues that the diesel subsidy is crucial as a fare price control mechanism, which would not only save bus operators but also ensure that the tourism industry remains unaffected. Previously, the Malaysian Bumiputera Bus Operators Association (PPBBM) had sent a letter to the relevant ministry regarding this issue but has yet to receive a response. Wan Mohd Nuhairi mentioned that they are prepared to meet and discuss with the government and are willing to agree to terms they find acceptable.

Bus operator Mohamad Fakkarudin Ibrahim, who owns 20 buses and employs 15 workers, shared that the rising diesel prices have forced him to cancel several trips as customer payments could not cover the costs. Meanwhile, tour bus driver Mohd Azuan Hamid expressed concerns about losing his income due to a lack of bus bookings, which affects his ability to support his family, including four schoolgoing children. He conveyed hope that the government could provide some form of assistance.