Melaka: Strict action, including termination of employment, will be taken against drivers of Melaka's Bus Stop Service Transformation Programme (SBST), BAS. MY Melaka, who are found to be problematic and frequently violate road and traffic regulations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Public Works, Infrastructure, Public Facilities and Transport Committee chairman Datuk Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer stated that he has received numerous complaints regarding BAS. MY Melaka stage bus drivers, particularly for reckless driving. Additionally, there have been reports of bus drivers refusing to stop at designated bus stops.

Hameed emphasized that strict screening was conducted for the selection of BAS. MY Melaka drivers, which included assessments of their background and summons records. Moreover, the drivers are confirmed to be free from drug abuse. He shared these insights at a breaking-of-fast event held last night.

Currently, there are about 60 BAS. MY Melaka drivers managing more than 40 buses in operation. The service was launched in October last year, backed by an allocation of RM83.76 million from the federal government. This initiative aimed to replace the stage bus service previously provided by Panorama Melaka Sdn Bhd, which ceased operations at the end of last year.

In a related matter, Hameed announced that excavation work on roads in the state is prohibited two days before and after Aidilfitri to ensure smooth traffic flow for the safety of road users. In case of emergencies such as pipe leaks or power outages involving underground cables, a special application must be submitted to conduct the necessary repair work.

He further warned that contractors found carrying out unauthorized excavation work during this period would have their permits suspended and would be reported to the Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia (CIDB).