Premier launches smart buses; commuting more affordable

MIRI: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the new Miri Smart Buses programme will significantly ease the financial burden of those in the B40 group.

During a media conference at the Miri Sentral Bus Terminal on Wednesday, he emphasised that the new initiative reflects the Sarawak government’s commitment to modernising public transportation while alleviating the cost of living for low-income residents.

“We introduced a bus policy with a one-ringgit fare, allowing people to travel anywhere in Miri for just RM1,” he said.

“This significantly reduces transportation expenses, especially for those in the B40 group, easing the cost of commuting to work,” he said.

Abang Johari launched the Miri Smart Buses programme earlier in the day, marking the beginning of operations for 14 new Euro 3 Volvo City Smart Buses.

These buses, equipped with features to accommodate people with disabilities, such as low-floor ramps, GPS tracking, black boxes, and Bus Signal Priority (BSP) technology, are part of a broader initiative to make Miri a smart city.

He expressed gratitude to local transportation agencies and operators for their efforts in upgrading the bus services and reiterated his administration’s focus on building smart infrastructure across Miri.

“The modern buses replace older models, fulfilling our promise to provide better, smarter public transport for Mirians. As we work towards developing Miri into a smart city, we aim for clean, efficient, and accessible transportation,” he said.

Abang Johari also highlighted that the buses are not just beneficial for locals but for tourists as well, contributing to Miri’s image as a resort city.

“I congratulate the people of Miri for being smart citizens, maintaining cleanliness, and using the buses regularly. A clean city reflects its smart residents.”

Also present were Sarawak Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat. (Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (Entrepreneur Development), State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Transport  Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, permanent secretary to the Sarawak Transport Ministry Datu Wong Hee Sieng and Miri Resident Jamalie Busri.