Langkawi ferry cuts spark protest as residents, tourism sector warns of economic fallout

CALLS are mounting for government intervention after reduced ferry services to Langkawi sparked public protests and warnings of economic damage to the tourism-dependent island.

Representatives from several non-governmental organisations gathered peacefully at the Kuah Passenger Jetty Terminal on Sunday evening, with hundreds in attendance, urging authorities to address the reduction in ferry frequency.

Anak Muda MADANI Kedah chairman Datuk Zuraidi Rahim told Bernama that the reduction in ferry trips from five to three daily services since March 25 had already led to a noticeable drop in tourist arrivals, particularly affecting small traders and those reliant on tourism income.

“This situation is particularly affecting Langkawi residents who depend on tourism, especially small traders. If it continues for another month or two, the island’s economy could deteriorate further.

“This gathering, held in accordance with regulations, aims to pressure ferry operators to immediately end the rationing,” he said.

He also noted that the government had introduced a targeted bunker fuel surcharge from Monday as a temporary measure to offset rising diesel costs, but urged ferry operators to restore up to eight daily trips to support tourism recovery.

“If rationing continues, we call on the government to allow more operators to provide ferry services to Langkawi,” he added.

Langkawi Tourism Association chairman Zainudin Kadir said the reduced schedule had resulted in a sharp fall in arrivals, especially among domestic visitors.

“About 70 per cent of tourists rely on ferry services to reach Langkawi. When trips are reduced, it slows down the inflow. Many travel agent counters here are now closed,” he said.

Transport operators also reported disruptions.

Langkawi District Bus Drivers Association chairman Mohamad Syukri Saad said numerous bookings had been cancelled due to limited ferry capacity.

“Fewer trips make it difficult for tourists, especially large groups, to arrive early and maximise their time on the island,” he said.

Langkawi resident, Ramli Ahmad said people on the island have also been affected as securing ferry tickets had become increasingly difficult due to reduced frequency.

“In the past, it was easy to get tickets because there were more trips. Now, tickets sell out quickly. In emergencies, we sometimes have to rely on RoRo services,” he said.

RoRo services refer to the “roll-on roll-off” ferry transport system used to move vehicles between the Malaysian mainland and Langkawi.

Earlier, Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd general manager Dr Baharin Baharom said the reduction in services was necessary to ensure operational continuity amid rising industrial diesel costs, warning that continued full operations would risk financial sustainability.

He said the company had been forced to scale down operations due to escalating fuel prices, in order to avoid a complete suspension of services. - April 20, 2026