PENANG has given commuters a new year gift with the renewal of the Mutiara (bus) pass and free shuttle bus services services throughout the state.
This follows the encouraging response from the public, as the state pivots from individual transport mode to public use to check the worsening congestion.
State exco for infrastructure Zairil Khi Johari said the state will renew up to 280,000 Mutiara Passes at a sum of RM7 million.
Those who hold such passes can travel free on all Rapid penang stage bus services throughout the state.
The initiative started in 2021 and as of November, 2025, a total of 246,934 Mutiara Passes were issued.
Penang will roll out several development projects under the infrastructure segment by January with the major one being the Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) system project.
Zairil noted that there is an increase in bus commuters, as the public realised the importance of public transport to alleviate congestion and improve mobility.
Penang will also continue with the 15 CAT Bridge bus services, which ferry passengers between Bayan Lepas and Komtar on the island with Seberang Jaya and Bukit Mertajam in mainland Prai.
Zairil believes that such services are a wise investment, as it can stimulate more interests in public transport.
Commuters can save on fuel, parking and toll charges while brisk walking can also help in wellness initiatives, he said. – January 1, 2026
