Another 6 months of free Penang ferry rides

Another 6 months of free Penang ferry rides

The state government has extended the free ferry service for Malaysians until June 30 next year at a cost of RM468,000.

The Penang government expects 65,000 people to use the ferry service every month. (Bernama pic)
GEORGE TOWN:
The Penang government will continue its free ferry ride programme for another six months until June 30 next year. This will involve an expenditure of RM468,000.

State infrastructure and transport chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the matter was in line with the state’s move to extend funding for its Pas Mutiara travel pass, announced recently.

“This means that Malaysians will continue to enjoy free public transportation in Penang. If 65,000 tickets are issued a month, this will cost the government RM78,000 monthly,” he said in a statement today.

Zairil said the programme, launched on July 1, 2021, had been well received by the people as shown in the increasing ridership, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.

To enjoy the free ferry rides, passengers need to use their MyKad to tap on the scanner provided by Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) before boarding the ferry.

“We hope the continued funding will alleviate the burden of those having to travel between Butterworth and the island frequently. This will also encourage the public to use public transport,” he said.

Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.