KUCHING: The Ministry of Transport (MOTS) is advocating for public-private partnerships (PPP) to improve Sarawak’s public transportation system, including smart bus operations, river buses, and the modernisation of bus and truck terminals.
Its minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin highlighted that PPP initiatives encourage private sector investment in fleet purchases, enhancing connectivity, safety, and service efficiency.
“Private sector participation not only improves facilities and management but also enhances logistics, making Sarawak’s public transport system more efficient, sustainable and accessible,” he said during the Sarawak Public Transport Committee (SPTC) meeting recently.
He also stressed the need for a comprehensive transport development strategy to ensure the resilience and future readiness of Sarawak’s transport system.
On a related matter, the meeting also provided a vital platform to discuss transport challenges across all divisions, with 12 Division DPTC Chairmen presenting key transport issues and proposing new projects for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
Thus, Lee urged all divisions to submit well-planned, forward-thinking proposals that address both short-term needs and long-term sustainability.
In terms of land transport and logistics, Lee called for continuous road network improvements and explored additional measures to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and improve freight efficiency.
He also pointed out the need to promote alternative transportation methods such as better pedestrian infrastructure and more efficient public transport systems, ensuring that policies align with economic growth by facilitating smoother logistics operations and reducing transportation costs.
