KOREA: In a strategic move to enhance Sarawak’s public land transport infrastructure, Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin led a Sarawakian delegation on a benchmarking visit to South Korea from July 29 to August 2, 2024.

The visit aimed to gain valuable insights into South Korea’s innovative approaches to public transportation, focusing on Seoul’s advanced systems and practices.

It began with a visit to Seoul’s Transport Operation & Information Service (TOPIS), where Dato Sri Lee met with Director Lee Jingu to discuss urban mobility, public bus systems, and financing models.

He highlighted Sarawak’s interest in Seoul’s public transport management and emergency response strategies.

During the visit to the Jungnang Public Bus Depot, the delegation learned about transitioning from Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to Electric Vehicle (EV) and hydrogen buses, aligning with South Korea's green energy policy and offering a model for Sarawak's carbon emission reduction goals.

Another key visit was to T-Money, Seoul’s Smart Transportation Card head office, where the delegations gained insights into its advanced technology and smart mobility solutions, which offer practical examples for enhancing Sarawak’s transportation infrastructure.

In pursuit of further understanding transportation innovations, the delegation paid a visit ti LG Science Park and Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang to explore advancements in hydrogen and autonomous vehicles, highlighting South Korea’s leadership in sustainable transport solutions.

Furthermore, Dato Sri Lee also met with Ambassador Dato Mohd Zamruni Khalid and Deputy Minister JungHee Uhm to discuss South Korea’s policies on public transport, urban mobility and sustainable logistics.

The delegates from Sarawak include Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak I (Aviation and Road), Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS), Datu Wong Hee Sieng, Head of Land Transport and Logistics Division, Chong Chi Fam, and officers from MOTS. -UKASnews