Government allocates over RM470 million to strengthen public transportation

KUCHING: The government is committed to ensuring an efficient, affordable, and comfortable public transportation system for all citizens.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the Rural Air Services for Sarawak and Sabah will continue with an allocation of over RM200 million, which includes new routes from Miri to Long Banga, and Kota Kinabalu to Layang-Layang in Sabah.

The government will also support the bus services with an allocation exceeding RM270 million, ensuring that every major town in all states can benefit from this initiative.

Furthermore, Anwar who also serves as the Finance Minister said the government has agreed to provide free fares for all university, polytechnic, community college, and matriculation students nationwide using the BAS.MY service.

Additionally, beginning in mid-2025, fuel subsidies for RON95 will be restructured to allow 85 per cent of the population to maintain their benefits, while wealthier individuals and foreign residents will pay the full price.

Anwar highlighted that the subsidy burden will still fall on 85 per cent of the population, indicating that the government will continue to subsidise approximately RM12 billion for the needs of this demographic.

This adjustment is expected to save the government RM8 billion each year.

“Once again, I want to stress that the subsidy will continue for 85 per cent of the people.

“The savings achieved from this will be utilised for the welfare of the larger population,” he said when tabling the 2025 Budget in Parliament, today (Oct 18).

The government’s initiatives aim to enhance public transportation access and ensure that subsidies continue to support those who need them most, reinforcing its commitment to the wellbeing of all Malaysians.