GEORGE TOWN – Motorcyclists and cyclists who use the ferry service connecting Butterworth on the mainland with George Town on the island will enjoy an additional six months of half-price discount on fares.
Penang Port Commission chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng said the 50% ticket price reduction would be extended from July 1 until the end of this year.
“This initiative will help reduce the burden of travel costs for people who commute by ferry, which covers those on motorcycle and bicycle, and rickshaw passengers.
“In line with the aspirations of Keluarga Malaysia, all passengers, regardless of whether they are Malaysian citizens or not, will be able to enjoy this funding,” he said in a statement today.
Tan first announced the 50% discount from January 1 to June 30 for all motorcyclists and cyclists on the new ferries last year.
With the announcement, motorcyclists enjoy a fare of RM1 compared with the original price of RM2, and a bicycle fare of only 60 sen compared with RM1.20.
Tan also said that as of May 31, a total of 62,564 motorcycles and 1,393 bicycles have enjoyed the discount, involving a total cost of RM65,539.10.
“This initiative is expected to benefit 100,000 motorcycle and bicycle users using the ferry service within six months”.
Currently, pedestrians use the temporary speedboat ferry service, while motorcyclists and cyclists use separate ferry services.
It is to replace the outdated, yet iconic ferries, two of which will be turned into a floating restaurant and museum by the private sector. – The Vibes, June 28, 2022
