ART to transform Sarawak’s public transportation

BINTULU: The final livery design of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles, a modern public transport system for Kuching, was unveiled at the Sarawak Day 2024 celebration last night (July 22).

The ART’s final design, which features the colours black, yellow, red, and white, mirrors the Sarawak flag.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the ART that uses hydrogen will bring transformation to the public transport system in Sarawak.

He said the ART will start in Kuching through the implementation of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project.

“Currently, Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd is working diligently to provide dedicated lanes, stop stations, and depots for the ART in Kuching and Kota Samarahan.

Abang Johari (centre) and the dignitaries during the state anthem. Photos: Ghazali Bujang

“And Insya-Allah, as I mentioned earlier, it will extend from Bintulu to Kidurong and Samalaju,” he said when delivering his speech at the celebration held at Old Bintulu Airport site here.

Abang Johari had previously stressed the need to improve and upgrade transportation infrastructure between Bintulu town and Tanjung Kidurong due to the various activities taking place there, such as the petrochemical hub and the medical innovation and technology hub.

He said Bintulu will be the second location to have the ART after Kuching, facilitating smooth travel to and from the town and industrial hubs.

on the final design, he said several designs were proposed by the Sarawak Ministry of Transportation and Sarawak Metro, but only one has been chosen to reflect the aspirations and strength of Sarawak.

Currently, the ART vehicles are being manufactured in China, with the first vehicle expected to arrive in Kuching by the end of this year.