KUALA LUMPUR: School bus operators may increase fares by up to 30 per cent next year due to rising operational costs.
Federation of School Bus Associations Malaysia president Amali Munif Rahmat said the cost increase is driven by the new RM1,700 minimum wage and rising spare part prices.
"We have no authority to set prices, but we do not rule out the possibility of fare hikes," he told Sinar Harian.
Amali explained that higher operating costs could lead to fare increases, but the decision ultimately depends on each operator's financial situation.
"If operators are making losses, they have to raise fares. Who would run a business at a loss?" he said, adding that the percentage of increases may vary by region.
However, he advised operators to avoid significant hikes that would burden parents.
"If you're already making a profit and don't need to raise prices, don't take advantage of the situation," he said.
Meanwhile, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Industri Bas Sekolah Malaysia president Mohd Haron Mohamad Sidik said school bus operators generally earn income for only nine months of the year due to school holidays, yet must cover costs for 12 months, including road tax, insurance, and scheduled safety inspections.
Haron also said the Transport Ministry has revoked the incentive allowing school bus operators to rent their buses during school holidays, further affecting their income.