IN a move to celebrate Aidilfitri and foster unity, the Penang Port Commission (SPPP) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) have announced a free ferry service for all Malaysian citizens on 29 and 30 March.
Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, Chairman of SPPP, stated that the complimentary service will cover both directions of travel, from Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal (PSAH) to Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal (PRTU) and vice versa.
“SPPP and PPSB are delighted to spread the festive cheer of Aidilfitri by offering a free ferry experience to all Malaysians,” Yeoh said in a statement.
“This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to making travel easier for Malaysians, particularly during festive seasons. It is designed not only to ease congestion on Penang’s roads but also to promote the use of more sustainable and efficient public transport options,” he added.
The free ferry service aims to alleviate the usual traffic build-up during the festive period and encourage the public to consider eco-friendly travel alternatives. Yeoh also urged the public to plan their journeys in advance and check for the latest ferry schedules via the official SPPP and PPSB websites and social media channels.
Reflecting on the success of similar initiatives, Yeoh pointed to the figures from last year’s Aidilfitri, when more than 27,801 foot passengers and 5,740 two-wheeled vehicles used the ferry service in both directions.
This, he noted, highlighted the ferry service as a popular and reliable mode of transportation among Malaysians.
Looking at the broader picture, Yeoh reported that over 2.1 million foot passengers and 747,785 two-wheeled vehicles utilised the ferry service throughout the entire year of 2024.
"With the introduction of this free ferry service, we hope to ease the financial burden on the public and provide an opportunity for everyone to celebrate Aidilfitri with more joy and meaning," Yeoh said.
The Penang Port Commission and Penang Port Sdn Bhd remain committed to ensuring the smooth operation of the ferry service and are taking continuous steps to improve it for the benefit of the Malaysian public. – March 21, 2025
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