Transport Minister: Miri to replace aging buses with new Volvo smart buses under 12th Malaysia Plan

Lee (seated, third from left) in a group photo with stakeholders during the workshop in Miri.

BY Tedong Rantayy

MIRI, July 24: Miri is set to upgrade its urban transportation system with the introduction of new Volvo smart buses from Sweden under the 12th Malaysia Plan.

These buses, each with a capacity of 55 passengers, are scheduled to replace the aging fleet by the end of September this year, with an official launch planned for October.

Speaking at the Miri Urban Transport Action Plan stakeholder workshop, organized by Curtin Biovalley Sdn Bhd in collaboration with Perunding Amal Teknik Sdn Bhd, Sarawak’s Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin announced that 14 new buses would be brought in to address the complaints from passengers about the current buses’ poor condition.

“The current fleet of buses, some over 20 years old, are in poor condition. Passengers onboard these buses complained to me and said these buses are too old, sometimes the air conditioning is not working well, and they are not very comfortable.

“So, our ministry proposed replacing these old buses with new smart buses, and we finally got the approval under the 12th Malaysia Plan,” Lee disclosed.

“Now a crucial question arises: how can we prevent these buses from being caught in traffic jams, given the lack of dedicated lanes? Currently, our buses operate like ordinary vehicles on the road, which can lead to delays and inefficiencies.

“In discussions with my ministry officers, we have explored the use of technology to overcome this challenge. Similar to the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, which benefits from signal priority, we propose implementing signal priority for our buses,” Lee explained.

This technology ensures that traffic lights turn green for buses as they approach intersections, allowing them to travel without stopping at red lights.

Lee also highlighted the importance of today’s workshop in formulating strategies to enhance the urban transportation system in Miri City up to the year 2035.

“We aim to improve mobility, reduce congestion, enhance safety, and promote sustainable transportation options. This forward-thinking strategy will focus on integrating public transportation, cycling, walking, and modern infrastructure to ensure mobility and accessibility for all,” he pointed out.

Also present at the workshop were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Sarawak, Datu Wong Hee Sieng, and the Head of the Land Transport and Logistic Division, Ministry of Transport, Sarawak, Chong Chi Fam. — DayakDaily