KUCHING: The BAS.MY Kuching Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme began operations today with six buses operating along the Q10 route from the Open Air Market to Serian.

Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said that this bus is accessible to persons with disabilities (PWD), travelling 67 kilometres (km) and covering 48 bus stops while offering cheap, user-friendly fares.

According to him, the number of buses in service will be increased in phases with a total of 56 buses operating by the end of April.

"Today, BAS.MY Kuching will begin operations with six buses, instead of the planned ten, as four are not yet operational.

"However, in March we will see 20 more buses starting their operations, while an additional 26 more buses will operate by the end of April.

“Subsequently, we will have 56 modern buses equipped with closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, PWD-friendly and low fares, as well as being equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS),” he said.

He said this when met by reporters at the Open Air Market, here on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Dato Sri Lee took the opportunity to experience the bus ride himself to Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) before it continued its journey to Serian on its first day of operation.

He shared that the bus offers free services for students, PWDs, and senior citizens aged 60 and above, who can apply for the BAS.MY Concession Card through the operator.

“So, I hope that with the availability of these new buses, the operator will adhere strictly to the schedule and be punctual because one of the most important things in delivering such a service is punctuality and reliability.

"I also hope that enforcement agencies will conduct regular inspections, ensuring that buses operate according to schedule and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the SBST,”he said. -UKASnews