Mutiara Borneo expands premium coach fleet with six new double-deckers

From left: Managing director of Man Truck & Bus Malaysia, Marc Appelt; Minister of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Managing director of Mutiara Borneo Sdn Bhd, Hamdin Morsidi

By Amanda L

KUCHING, July 14: Mutiara Borneo Sdn Bhd has expanded its premium inter-city bus services with six new MAN Euro 5 double-decker coaches, supporting Sarawak’s push for a safer, more modern and sustainable public transport network.

The six new coaches have begun entering service, with five already operating on inter-city routes across Sarawak.

Launching the new fleet today, Minister of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin described the investment as another milestone in transforming public transport in the State, noting that it reflects growing private sector confidence in the industry’s future.

Equipped with advanced safety features, CCTV surveillance, USB charging ports, comfortable seating and VIP facilities, the new buses are expected to provide passengers with a higher standard of travel while strengthening connectivity between Sarawak’s divisions.

Lee said the investment aligns with the State government’s vision of developing an integrated, efficient and sustainable transport network that offers a safe, reliable, affordable and comfortable alternative to private vehicles.

Lee during his speech at the event held here on July 14, 2026.

“As Sarawak continues to progress, we must continue investing in transport solutions that are modern, sustainable and future-ready,” he said.

He said ongoing improvements to Sarawak’s road infrastructure, including the completion of most sections of the Pan Borneo Highway and 21 major bridges are reducing travel times and improving connectivity.

According to him, the improved road network will enable bus operators such as Mutiara Borneo to deliver more efficient and dependable services, making inter-city bus travel an increasingly attractive option for the public.

With travel becoming faster and more convenient, he also encouraged operators to further enhance passenger comfort by introducing onboard toilet facilities on future executive coaches.

Recalling feedback received from passengers, Lee said toilet facilities are especially important for long-distance journeys where the distance between rest stops can be considerable.

He also suggested that future VIP coaches be equipped with fully reclining seats to allow passengers to rest comfortably, likening the experience to business-class air travel.

“I think it will provide competition to air travel, especially now with better roads and shorter travelling times,” he said, adding that the planned Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Road would create even greater opportunities for public bus services in the years ahead.

Beyond improving mobility, Lee said encouraging more people to travel by bus instead of private vehicles would also contribute towards reducing carbon emissions, easing traffic congestion and supporting Sarawak’s environmental sustainability goals.

He commended Mutiara Borneo for investing in modern buses equipped with advanced technology and passenger-focused features, while also acknowledging MAN Truck & Bus Malaysia for bringing world-class expertise to the State.

Such collaborations between local operators and international manufacturers are essential to driving innovation and strengthening Sarawak’s transport ecosystem,” he added. — DayakDaily