ALOR STAR: Over 1,700 ferry passengers, including tourists travelling to Langkawi from Kuala Kedah, were left frustrated due to ferry disruptions caused by bad weather.
The passengers expressed dissatisfaction with the ferry services, particularly due to the lack of timely notifications about today's cancelled trips.
Zulkarnain Yamsuri, 28, who had planned a holiday with friends, said he was only informed of the cancellation upon arriving at the ferry terminal.
"I had already booked hotel rooms and made plans with my friends, some of whom took leave from work for this trip.
"We're very disappointed. They should have informed us about the cancellations at least a day or a few hours in advance," said the odd-job worker from Alor Star, who was scheduled to depart for Langkawi at 1.30pm.
Patrick F., a 35-year-old backpacker from Austria, shared similar sentiments, saying his first trip to Langkawi would now be postponed.
"It's disappointing. I wasn't familiar with the ferry services here, and I wasn't informed of the cancellations earlier. However, it's better to be safe given the bad weather," he added.
Mohd Tarmizi Azminor, 51, who had work commitments in Langkawi, said he now needs to find accommodation for the night and catch the first ferry tomorrow.
"I have work tomorrow, and this cancellation means I'll have to reschedule my appointments, which complicates things for others as well. The ferry service should improve its announcement system," said the lorry driver.
Meanwhile, Konsortium Ferrylines Ventures Sdn Bhd general manager Captain Dr Baharin Baharom confirmed all ferry trips between Kuala Kedah and Langkawi today were cancelled.
"Six trips carrying 1,791 passengers from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi were cancelled due to bad weather. An additional four trips carrying 2,154 passengers from Langkawi to Kuala Kedah were also cancelled," he said in a statement.
He added that those affected by the cancellations can request refunds or reschedule their travel dates.
"Additional ferries will be provided through the Kuala Perlis Passenger Terminal, subject to the terminal's capacity and safe water levels," he noted.