KUALA LUMPUR: The government plans to invest RM450 million to acquire up to 500 electric buses of various sizes to boost public transport in selected cities nationwide.
Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the move was to demonstrate the government’s commitment in improving public transport and nurture cleaner and greener cities.
“The government is committed to enhance the mobility of Malaysians by reducing transport costs and improving infrastructure by prioritising public transport.
“In January, the government introduced My50 and My100 monthly travel passes providing unlimited travel on all rail and bus services under RapidKL.
“The scheme has since benefitted more than 120,000 public transport users.
“Subsequently, the government launched Pas Mutiara for RM50 in Pulau Pinang, providing unlimited travel in a month on Rapid buses and Rapid Ferry.
“The government will further support last-mile connectivity in rural and urban areas by subsidising bus operators with an allocation of RM146 million in 2020,” he said in his 2020 Budget speech.
Lim said the government would also upgrade the rail tracks between Halogilat Station and Tenom Station in Sabah at a cost of RM50 million to enhance travelling convenience for locals while providing a memorable experience for tourists.
He said the government also planned to upgrade the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh which would include a runway extension.
“Towards this, the government would also invite proposals on a public private partnership basis to realise this investment.”