EXPRESS bus tickets from Seremban to popular East Coast destinations have nearly sold out, with approximately 80% of tickets already purchased ahead of the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations.
A check by Bernama at Terminal One, the main bus terminal in Seremban, revealed that tickets to Kuala Terengganu and Kelantan are in particularly high demand, with sales outpacing those for routes to the north of the country.
Edith Patrict, 40, a cashier at the centralised ticketing counter, shared that 40 express bus companies operate from Terminal One, though some have yet to release their tickets for Aidilfitri travel.
“Additional tickets may become available a week before Hari Raya, as bus companies typically put on extra buses for East Coast routes, depending on demand,” she said.
Bernama cited, Edith also noted that bus fares have risen by around 25% compared to last year.
Rohayu Abdul Manaf, 56, another ticketing clerk, explained that tickets for the Seremban-Kuala Terengganu route are now priced between RM88 and RM90, compared to RM67 last year.
“We were informed that the price increase is likely due to higher operating and maintenance costs. Most customers prefer purchasing their tickets early online, as it is more convenient and often offers additional discounts,” she added.
Meanwhile, Nurasyikin Abd Malek, 21, who bought her ticket online in mid-February, advised fellow travellers to compare prices on various websites before making a purchase.
“Buying tickets online is more beneficial as it provides more opportunities for discounts or points that can be redeemed for cheaper fares,” she said. Nurasyikin will be travelling to Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, two days before Aidilfitri.
Private sector worker Zakaria Harun, 37, also purchased his ticket for the Seremban-Jeli, Kelantan, route before the start of Ramadan.
“Every year, I make sure to purchase my ticket early, as they sell out quickly, especially for East Coast destinations. I prefer travelling by bus over the train because it is more convenient and comfortable,” he explained.
Meanwhile, in response to increased demand for travel during the festive period, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) will introduce four additional trips on the northern route between March 27 and April 6.
This service, named the *Ekspres Lambaian Aidilfitri* northern edition, will operate between Padang Besar and KL Sentral. The special train will make stops at key stations, including Tanjung Malim, Ipoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Sungai Petani, Alor Setar, Arau, and Padang Besar.
KTMB announced in a statement that tickets for this service will go on sale at 8am tomorrow, with each trip offering 480 tickets, bringing the total number of tickets available to 1,920.
“This special train service aims to provide a convenient travel alternative for those celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey for people returning to their hometowns or going on holiday,” KTMB said.
The national rail operator further assured that the service would cater to the needs of senior citizens and children on long-distance trips, with a commitment to offering safe and comfortable travel options.
“Passengers are advised to arrive early at the station to assist with security checks, document verification, and entry procedures,” the statement continued.
Tickets can be purchased via the cashless KTM Mobile (KITS) app, the official KTMB website (www.ktmb.com.my), or at KTMB kiosks for added convenience. – March 16, 2025
