GEORGE TOWN – The state government is willing to keep the iconic ferry service going if the Penang Port Commission (PPC) hands over the fleet as a “gift”.
Transport and infrastructure exco Zairil Khir Johari said the state administration understands the sentiments of Penangites, who consider the ferries a state symbol and want the service maintained.
“A state exco meeting held on January 6 decided to consider continuing the operation of the iconic ferry service, if the federal government discontinues it. The state does not agree with the termination of the service, and respects the sentiments of the people.”
PPC last month ceased the service, save for one ferry, which is used to transport motorcyclists and bicyclists. Foot passengers, meanwhile, are directed to speedboats at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal.
Penang Port Sdn Bhd is the current operator of the cross-channel service.
Following the move last month, drivers are left with only the Penang and Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridges to travel between the island and mainland.
PPC also announced that it has ordered new ferries to transport motorcyclists and foot passengers, and that a fleet of water buses and transporters will arrive in mid-2022.
Zairil said he will meet PPC officials soon to discuss the state’s proposal to maintain the ferry service. – The Vibes, January 8, 2021
